A behind-the-scenes attempt is reportedly underway to bring PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss closer to the TVK government, with a strategist said to be close to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay reportedly reaching out to him and pitching a possible Cabinet berth for his wife, Sowmiya Ramadoss.
According to a report published by Tamil weekly Junior Vikatan, the strategist reportedly told Anbumani that Vijay had “great respect” for him and wanted to make Sowmiya a minister. Anbumani was also reportedly urged not to take an opposing position at this stage and instead join the alliance after the by-elections.
The report claimed that Anbumani was subsequently convinced by the proposal.
The reported outreach comes despite the existence of the “Secular Social Justice Victory Alliance”, in which the VCK is already a constituent. Junior Vikatan questioned how the PMK could be accommodated within the alliance alongside the VCK.
According to the report, the alliance may exist largely in name. It claimed that leaders of the alliance parties had wanted to share the stage with Vijay at a public meeting for the by-election but were reportedly informed by the government leadership that there was “no chance” of such an arrangement.
The report further claimed that sections within the ruling establishment believe the VCK is not indispensable for securing Scheduled Caste votes, while the PMK could help consolidate Vanniyar votes.
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Junior Vikatan reported that the ruling establishment is allegedly calculating that a victory in both by-elections could allow the government to continue with PMK support without depending on the VCK or the Communist parties.
Kanimozhi’s Third-Front Efforts
The report also turned to DMK MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi’s recent tour of northern India, which was reportedly aimed at exploring the possibility of a third political front.
According to Junior Vikatan, Kanimozhi held discussions with the Trinamool Congress and the Samajwadi Party. However, the parties reportedly asked for more time, pointing out that more than two years remained before the Lok Sabha election.
The report said Kanimozhi did not receive the positive response the DMK had expected but was continuing her efforts.
Meanwhile, Junior Vikatan reported that some senior leaders within the DMK were attempting to bring the “sun” and the “lotus” together – an apparent reference to the DMK and BJP.
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