In a strategic move ahead of the Rajya Sabha polls, AIADMK is set to field its seasoned leader M. Thambidurai alongside PMK chief Anbumani Ramadoss for the two seats from Tamil Nadu. The elections, scheduled for March 16, follow the Election Commission’s notification on February 18, with nominations open until March 5.
The AIADMK-led alliance, drawing from its assembly base and partner support, is optimistic about clinching both available seats. Party sources confirm PMK’s allocation of one slot, with Anbumani—son of late founder Ramadoss and a prominent voice in Vanniyar politics—poised to represent the ally.
Thambidurai, with his extensive resume including stints as Union Minister and Lok Sabha Deputy Speaker, brings gravitas to the other nomination. The pact was sealed in the AIADMK executive committee meeting, as affirmed by Palaniswami, who highlighted PMK’s role in the front.
Tamil Nadu’s 234-member assembly sees AIADMK at about 60 MLAs after setbacks like defections to DMK by figures such as O. Panneerselvam and the passing of Valparai MLA Amul Kandhasamy. Yet, alliances with PMK (3 MLAs) and BJP (4 MLAs) bolster the tally to around 66 votes—more than enough for a double win.
This development underscores the deepening ties within the opposition NDA ecosystem in the state, positioning Thambidurai and Anbumani to influence national debates from Delhi. As nominations approach, all eyes are on how this plays out against the DMK government’s dominance.