Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) Member of Parliament Kanimozhi Karunanidhi has formally submitted a request to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla for significant changes to the seating arrangements of DMK MPs. The request, made on May 8, 2026, cites the recent termination of the DMK's alliance with the Indian National Congress as the primary reason.
In her letter, Kanimozhi stated, "In view of the changed political circumstances and as our alliance with the Indian National Congress has come to an end, it may not be appropriate for our Members to continue occupying the present seating arrangement alongside them in the House." She emphasized the need for separate seating to allow DMK members to "effectively discharge their responsibilities" in the lower house.
Alliance Breakdown and Accusations
The DMK's decision follows a dramatic shift in the political landscape of Tamil Nadu. The Congress party recently exited the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance and subsequently formed a post-poll pact with the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).
DMK leadership has strongly condemned Congress's actions, accusing the party of "backstabbing" and displaying an "opportunistic political tilt." A resolution passed during a DMK MLAs-designate meeting, chaired by party president and outgoing Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, criticized Congress for mirroring tactics previously attributed to the BJP in other states.
DMK's Criticism of Congress
The resolution highlighted that Congress, despite being allotted one Rajya Sabha seat and 28 assembly seats within the DMK alliance, shifted its allegiance to an alternative party within three days of the election results. This move, according to the DMK, jeopardized the electoral victories achieved through the collective efforts of the coalition members.
Furthermore, the DMK resolution accused Congress of failing to act honestly during the election process, betraying the party leader, and neglecting to congratulate Chief Minister Stalin on his victory. Despite these criticisms, the DMK resolution acknowledged Stalin's display of tolerance, generosity, and responsibility in the face of the political upheaval.