Sun Feb 22 13:51:20 UTC 2026: # DMK Alliance Poised for Victory in 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections, Claims CPI(M) State Secretary

The Story:
CPI(M) State secretary P. Shanmugam confidently predicts a DMK-led alliance victory in the upcoming 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. In an interview with The Hindu, Shanmugam cited the alliance’s strength, the DMK’s increased activism against the BJP-led Union government, and the popularity of the DMK government’s welfare schemes as key factors. He dismissed claims that the AIADMK, despite attempts to unify estranged leaders, poses a significant threat, characterizing their efforts as merely “mending a broken pot.” Shanmugam also addressed the controversial issue of TASMAC liquor shops, advocating for regulation rather than total prohibition.

Key Points:

  • Shanmugam asserts the DMK-led alliance is strong due to its composition, the DMK’s stance against the BJP, and popular welfare schemes.
  • He downplays the AIADMK’s reunification efforts, highlighting internal divisions and a lack of “emotional cohesion.”
  • He criticizes the lack of clarity between the BJP and AIADMK regarding leadership within their alliance.
  • Shanmugam points to anti-Union government sentiment in Tamil Nadu due to perceived bias in fund allocation.
  • The CPI(M) will seek a two-digit number of seats in the upcoming seat-sharing talks with the DMK on February 26, 2026.
  • Shanmugam argues against total prohibition, citing practical difficulties and advocating for regulation of TASMAC liquor shops.

Critical Analysis:
The CPI(M)’s strong endorsement of the DMK-led alliance reflects a calculated strategy to maintain influence within Tamil Nadu’s political landscape. Given the historical context of seat-sharing negotiations, the CPI(M) is likely leveraging its support to secure a more favorable position in the upcoming elections. The emphasis on the DMK’s opposition to the BJP suggests a broader alignment of interests among regional parties against the central government.

Key Takeaways:

  • The DMK-led alliance is presented as the frontrunner for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.
  • Internal divisions within the AIADMK and a lack of clarity in the BJP-AIADMK alliance could weaken their challenge.
  • Anti-BJP sentiment in Tamil Nadu is a significant factor favoring the DMK alliance.
  • The debate over TASMAC liquor shops continues to be a contentious issue in Tamil Nadu politics.
  • The CPI(M)’s seat-sharing demands indicate its ambition to increase its representation in the Assembly.

Impact Analysis:
The potential victory of the DMK-led alliance could have significant long-term implications for Tamil Nadu’s relationship with the Union government. A strong DMK government could further advocate for greater autonomy and challenge the BJP’s policies at the national level. The outcome of the 2026 elections will also shape the future of the AIADMK and the broader political landscape of Tamil Nadu, potentially leading to further realignments and shifts in power.

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