CPI-M not seeking RS seat as part of poll deal: Shanmugam

Reiterating that the CPI-M was focussing on seeking doubt-digit seat allocation by the DMK for the Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu, its state secretary P. Shanmugam on Monday made it clear that the party was not considering asking for a Rajya Sabha berth.

Welcoming the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) joining the DMK-led alliance, he said the development would help strengthen efforts to defeat the AIADMK–BJP combine.

Describing the AIADMK–BJP alliance as one formed out of compulsion, Mr. Shanmugam expressed doubts over its durability, noting that some allies, including the AMMK and the Tamil Maanila Congress, had indicated they would hold talks with the BJP rather than the AIADMK on seat-sharing.

He said there was no possibility of the Congress quitting the DMK-led alliance and its continuation was important for both the coalition and the party. Seeking additional seats was the prerogative of each party, he added.

Referring to actor and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam’s leader Vijay, he said the latter had been critical of the DMK since launching his party and questioned his recent remarks about meeting people in villages only after forming a government. Vijay should take moral responsibility for the Karur stampede, he said and added that evading responsibility did not befit a leader.