Sources in the ruling camp say Chief Minister Vijay has declined a proposal from MDMK leader Durai Vaiko linked to the resignation of the party’s MLAs.
In the recent Tamil Nadu Assembly election, the MDMK contested four seats in the DMK-led alliance under the “Rising Sun” symbol and won two. After the election, parties that had won under their own symbols—Congress, VCK, Muslim League and the Left parties—shifted sides, with Congress, VCK and the Muslim League also joining the cabinet.
Against this backdrop, Durai Vaiko had publicly expressed frustration that the MDMK had to contest under the DMK symbol. He is said to have met Vijay in Tiruchirappalli and also held talks at the Chief Minister’s residence on June 4.
According to sources, Durai Vaiko told Vijay that if asked, the MDMK could have its two MLAs resign, exit the DMK alliance and join Vijay’s alliance to face by-elections together. However, Vijay is reportedly not keen, with sources citing concerns that forcing resignations of MLAs elected under the DMK symbol could intensify criticism of “horse-trading” and hurt the ruling side in any bypoll.
Even so, the same sources say some political strategists believe contesting additional seats through by-elections could benefit Vijay’s camp, though the Chief Minister is said to be weighing the potential backlash.
