Speculation over a possible understanding between the DMK and the Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) has resurfaced after NTK chief Seeman and opposition leader Udhayanidhi Stalin shared a cordial moment at a wedding function in Chennai.
At the event held in Tiruvallur’s Thiruverkadu, Seeman arrived minutes after Udhayanidhi. Witnesses said Udhayanidhi got up to greet him, embraced him and welcomed him warmly, after which the two spoke smilingly on the dais, energising cadres from both sides.
According to those present, Seeman asked about DMK leader M K Stalin’s health, urged Udhayanidhi to take care of himself, wished him well for an upcoming foreign trip and conveyed congratulations related to Inbanidhi’s graduation. Udhayanidhi responded that Stalin was doing well and said he would pass on the message and the wishes.
The interaction comes at a time when DMK’s alliance landscape is being discussed widely. The report noted that several parties that had earlier been part of the DMK-led front have moved away and are backing the TVK government, while the DMK is currently said to be aligned with a smaller set of parties.
In his speech at the function, Udhayanidhi also took a swipe at those who, he said, left the DMK when “SOPA” arrived, and asserted that the DMK’s bond with Muslims and minorities could not be broken. He said the party would act as a protective shield for minorities and would bring Tamil Nadu out of the present political crisis.
