Vijayakanth’s DMDK joins DMK alliance; blow to NDA in Tamil Nadu

Chennai: Premalatha Vijayakanth, General Secretary of DMDK, visited the DMK headquarters and met Chief Minister M.K. Stalin. The move comes after days of discussions and marks a swift maneuver by the DMK to bring DMDK into its fold.

Despite earlier speculation that DMDK might join the NDA, the party chose the DMK alliance, citing requests from party workers. Premalatha emphasised that seat allocations would be decided later, with Stalin also set to determine the Rajya Sabha seat.

Political implications

This alliance strengthens the DMK ahead of the assembly elections, with projections suggesting the front could win more than 200 seats. Analysts note that this is a major setback for the NDA in Tamil Nadu, as the party loses a key regional ally.

Stalin described Vijayakanth, referred to as “the Captain,” as a close friend, highlighting a cordial relationship despite past political competition.

The move revives the front Vijayakanth had envisioned in 2016, now materialising under the DMK-led coalition.

Vijayaraj Alagarswami, popularly known as Vijayakanth, was a celebrated Indian actor, filmmaker, philanthropist, and politician. Over a career spanning four decades, he became a prominent figure in Tamil cinema, earning acclaim for his versatile performances and mass appeal.

Later in life, Vijayakanth entered the political arena, founding his own party, the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK). Through this platform, he sought to translate his popularity and leadership skills from cinema into public service, becoming an influential voice in Tamil Nadu politics.