Tamil Nadu parties test alliance math ahead of 2026 polls

Political activity in Tamil Nadu has intensified as parties search for the most viable combinations ahead of next year’s assembly elections. The DMK-led alliance holds together for now, while on the other side the BJP-led NDA is trying to consolidate support. Though the BJP is aligned with the opposition AIADMK, talks continue on whether the PMK and other smaller groups may join. Efforts to reunite the AIADMK factions have also resumed.

On Wednesday, former CM O. Panneerselvam met Union home minister Amit Shah-his first meeting since quitting the NDA four months ago-to discuss possible realignments. OPS later said he conveyed that only a united AIADMK within the NDA can dislodge the DMK government, urging the BJP to facilitate unity. Earlier, senior AIADMK leader K. Sengottaiyan made a similar effort but later joined actor Vijay’s new party, TVK.

Congress, meanwhile, is working to strengthen its alliance with the DMK even as some within the party explore a parallel channel with Vijay. Congress seat-sharing committee chief Girish Chodankar met CM M.K.
Stalin this week for preliminary talks, while on Friday All India Professional Congress chief Praveen Chakravarty met Vijay in Chennai. Chakravarty, considered close to Rahul Gandhi, had praised Vijay on X earlier in the week. Sources told ET that the Congress wants more seats and a share in power, noting that it currently has no minister in the Stalin government. Vijay has indicated he is open to accommodating allies if an alliance he leads comes to power.