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In a significant political development, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has finalized a seat-sharing agreement with the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) led by Dr. S Ramadoss for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Tamil Nadu.
The alliance allocates 10 seats to the PMK, a regional powerhouse in northern Tamil Nadu, under the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). This decision follows the PMK’s recent decision to join the NDA, signaling a notable political shift in the state. The move has left the AIADMK, the primary opposition party, grappling with unexpected developments, as it had hoped for an alliance with the PMK.
The pact was sealed during a meeting between BJP state president K Annamalai and PMK founder Ramadoss at the latter’s residence in Thailapuram earlier today. Both leaders formally signed the agreement, solidifying their electoral collaboration.
With a strong influence in several northern districts of Tamil Nadu, the PMK represents the Vanniyar community, adding significant electoral weight to the NDA’s campaign strategy in the region.
Addressing reporters in a joint press briefing, Annamalai affirmed, “PMK will contest from 10 constituencies in Tamil Nadu as part of the NDA.” He emphasized the enduring partnership between the two parties, highlighting the PMK’s decade-long presence in the NDA and its participation in the 2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha elections as a BJP-led coalition member.
Annamalai commended Ramadoss for his visionary leadership, noting his commitment to implementing progressive policies that align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s transformative agenda for societal welfare.
The meeting witnessed the presence of Union Minister L Murugan, underscoring the significance of the alliance between the BJP and PMK in the upcoming electoral battle.
In a further display of solidarity, Ramadoss is expected to join Prime Minister Modi at a rally scheduled later today in nearby Salem district, underscoring the unity and resolve of the NDA alliance ahead of the impending Lok Sabha elections.
