Chennai, 31 January (H.S.) : The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has officially stated that its long-standing ally, the Indian National Congress (INC), has not formally sought a power-sharing arrangement during the recent high-level alliance discussions.

This clarification comes in the wake of intensifying speculation regarding a potential rift between the two parties ahead of the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. DMK Deputy General Secretary Kanimozhi Karunanidhi, who recently held a crucial meeting with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi, described the interactions as exceptionally smooth and cordial.

Addressing the media in Tirunelveli on Friday, Kanimozhi dismissed reports of conflict, asserting that the discussions focused on strengthening the Secular Democratic Alliance. While some state-level Congress functionaries had earlier voiced demands for a share in the state cabinet, DMK sources indicated that the Congress high command understands the regional political dynamics and is committed to the existing single-party rule framework. The DMK leadership, led by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, remains firm on maintaining the current governance model while ensuring that all allies are treated with due respect.

Authorities within the DMK confirmed that formal seat-sharing negotiations are expected to commence in early February. The party has indicated a willingness to offer a slight increase from the twenty-five seats allotted to the Congress in 2021.

TNCC President K. Selvaperunthagai echoed this positive sentiment, stating that the alliance is founded on shared ideological values and that final decisions on seat allocation will be announced by the party high command after thorough deliberations.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary