Overview

• CPI(M) State Secretary P. Shanmugam highlighted that the six seats allotted in 2021 were the lowest in alliance history and called for a larger share in 2026
• Shanmugam tied the demand to a party resolution that seeks greater visibility for Left-wing politics to counter the AIADMK-BJP combine
• Congress, VCK under Thol. Thirumavalavan, and MNM under Kamal Haasan have similarly staked claims for expanded constituencies
• A senior DMK leader said final seat-sharing decisions will be made closer to the 2026 assembly election date
• Observers warn that balancing ally demands with DMK’s bid for a self-sufficient majority could make negotiations more complex