DMK Forms Major Alliance for Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026

As Tamil Nadu prepares for the 2026 Assembly elections, the DMK has established a formidable coalition known as the Secular Progressive Alliance, which includes 21 parties. Under the leadership of Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, this alliance aims to replicate its previous electoral success and secure all 39 Lok Sabha seats in the upcoming elections. The Congress party has been allocated 28 assembly seats, slightly more than in 2021, following negotiations. With the opposition presenting challenges, the DMK coalition appears strong, as opinion polls currently favor them. Elections are expected to occur in April-May 2026, raising questions about the coalition's potential impact.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 5, 2026, 14:11 IST

Preparations for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections

The Tamil Nadu Assembly elections for 2026 are gearing up, with the DMK adopting a robust strategy under the leadership of Chief Minister M.K. Stalin. The party has formed a significant coalition known as the Secular Progressive Alliance, which is considered the largest and most comprehensive alliance in the state's political landscape.

Key Parties in the Alliance

The coalition comprises several major parties, including:

DMK (the leading party)

Indian National Congress (INC)

VCK (Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi)

CPI and CPI(M) (both leftist parties)

IUML (Indian Union Muslim League)

MDMK (Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam)

DMK (recently joined)

MNM (Makkal Needhi Maiam, Kamal Haasan's party) and other smaller regional parties

Strengthening Position for Upcoming Elections

This alliance aims to replicate the success of the 2021 elections and secure all 39 seats in the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Seat Allocation for Congress

After extensive discussions between the DMK and Congress, an agreement has been reached regarding seat distribution. The Congress party will contest 28 assembly seats, slightly more than the 25 seats it contested in 2021. Additionally, Congress has been allocated one Rajya Sabha seat (in the elections for Tamil Nadu's Rajya Sabha seats, the DMK received 2, Congress 1, and DMDK 1).

Finalizing the Agreement

The agreement was finalized during a meeting between Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and K. Selva Perunthagai, the president of the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee. Initially, Congress sought 41-45 seats but ultimately settled on 28.

Strategic Goals of the Alliance

This historic coalition of 21 parties is noteworthy as it is contesting elections for the fourth time without significant fractures. The DMK aims to secure over 200 seats in 2026, ensuring the re-election of M.K. Stalin. The opposition, comprising the AIADMK-BJP alliance and TVK (Vijay Thalapathi's party), poses a challenge, yet opinion polls currently show the DMK alliance in a favorable position.

Majority Requirement and Upcoming Elections

To achieve a majority in Tamil Nadu's 234-seat assembly, 118 seats are necessary. The coalition appears strong, and Congress's participation with 28 seats has further solidified the unity of the India alliance. Elections are anticipated to take place in April-May 2026.

Further Information

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