PMK-TVK Alliance Possibility: K Balu's Strategic Visit Sparks Political Speculation in Tamil Nadu

Chennai:

K Balu, a prominent member of Dr Anbumani Ramadoss' Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) team, generated alliance speculation following his unexpected visit to actor Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) headquarters on Thursday.

During his visit, Balu clarified that he came to invite TVK to join their December 17 protest in Chennai demanding a state-wide caste-based survey. When questioned about potential electoral collaboration before the 2026 Assembly elections, Balu responded to NDTV stating, "This visit relates only to the protest. Who knows what might develop in the future?"

The PMK representative met with TVK General Secretary Bussy Anand and K A Sengottaiyan, Chief Coordinator of the Administrative Committee.

Both political organizations have been actively pushing for caste census implementation by the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK). Tamil Nadu's government maintains that caste-based census would only be legally valid if conducted by the Union government. TVK leader Aadhav Arjuna challenged this position, stating, "The DMK's claim is merely an excuse. PMK has approached us regarding an important cause. We will consult with our leader before announcing our decision."

TVK has pledged to share governmental power if their alliance succeeds in elections. Currently, no major political entities have formed coalitions with them. A partnership would offer mutual advantages, with PMK's established presence in northern Tamil Nadu potentially strengthening TVK's position. The PMK, after numerous unsuccessful independent bids for power, could participate in governance if a TVK-led coalition wins.

The PMK, which advocates for the Vanniyar community, has historically alternated support between the DMK and AIADMK to align with winning parties each election. Their strongest performance came in 2006 with 18 MLAs. Recent political strategies have proven less effective. As part of the AIADMK alliance in both 2021 and 2024 elections, they secured five seats after a decade without representation. The party currently faces internal conflict between founder Dr Ramadoss and his son Dr Anbumani Ramadoss, with uncertainty about a potential split before upcoming elections.

Tamil Nadu appears headed toward four-way electoral competition. Following Balu's visit, TVK district secretaries established two committees—one to handle seat-sharing negotiations with potential allies and another to develop the party's election manifesto. The party has also authorized Vijay to make final decisions regarding alliances with parties willing to accept his leadership.