As Tamil Nadu braces for by-elections to Madurantakam and Dharapuram Assembly constituencies in October, the DMK senior leadership is reportedly holding consultations to adopt a strategy.
With filing of nominations set to begin today, party chief M K Stalin reportedly held consultations with senior executives regarding the approach to the by-elections.
Speculation is that the DMK camp is wary of contesting as its candidates could pave the way for a three-way election, which will benefit the TVK. The seats, both SC reserved, was held by AIADMK candidates, who has since switched camps to the TVK.
The DMK believes that if it loses the by-elections, the party's local support could be in jeopardy. On the other hand, abstaining can help the AIADMK win, which could dent Chief Minister Vijay's image.
Stalin, in an interview in Chennai on Monday, said, "The question arises whether the Assembly is functioning with dignity. We will soon announce the DMK's stance on the by-elections."
That said, DMK leader and leader of the opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin is reportedly against the idea. He believes that if DMK withdraws from the elections, the opposition parties are likely to campaign that the party has backed down, fearing Vijay's rise.
There is also talk in DMK circles that if the party decides to contest, Panaiyur Babu, who recently joined the party in the Madhurantakam constituency, may be given a chance.
Amidst these differing opinions, the DMK leadership is set to hold an emergency meeting with senior party leaders and key executives tomorrow. It is expected that a final decision will be taken on whether to field candidates in both constituencies or to boycott the by-elections on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, the AIADMK is leaving no stone unturned to ensure that it retains the seat. Speculation is that Edappadi Palaniswami is holding talks with the PMK for the by-election.
Palaniswami is reportedly confident that if the DMK ignores the by-election, he can win both seats.
