Strengthened Alliance Between AINRC and BJP Ahead of Puducherry Elections

The alliance between AINRC and BJP has been solidified with a finalized seat-sharing agreement ahead of the Puducherry assembly elections. Chief Minister N. Rangasamy is set to file his nomination, potentially contesting from two constituencies. Meanwhile, the Congress and DMK alliance faces challenges as both parties vie for leadership in the upcoming elections. Rangasamy's recent temple visits reflect his commitment to securing victory for his party and allies. With the election date approaching, political dynamics in Puducherry are intensifying.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 20, 2026, 18:36 IST

Puducherry Elections: AINRC and BJP Finalize Seat Sharing Agreement

The electoral alliance between the AINRC and BJP has gained momentum following the finalization of a seat-sharing agreement for the upcoming assembly elections in Puducherry. Chief Minister N. Rangasamy of AINRC and Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya from BJP have agreed on a distribution where AINRC will contest 16 seats while BJP will field candidates for 14 seats, which also includes allocations for AIADMK and LJK. This agreement paves the way for the elections scheduled for April 9, where voting will occur in a single phase across all 30 seats in the Union Territory.

Rangasamy's Nomination and Political Dynamics

Sources indicate that Rangasamy is expected to file his nomination soon, with plans to contest from two constituencies this time. It has become evident that AINRC will continue to lead the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Puducherry. Speculations arose until Thursday evening that Rangasamy might abandon the NDA to ally with actor Vijay's party, Tamilga Vetrik Katchi (TVK). However, BJP swiftly dispatched Mandaviya to Puducherry via a special flight, seemingly succeeding in persuading Rangasamy to remain with the NDA.

Congress and DMK Alliance Stalemate

Meanwhile, the alliance between Congress and MK Stalin's Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) is currently at an impasse. Similar to previous elections, Congress aims to lead the Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA) in Puducherry; however, DMK has firmly stated that it will take the lead in the alliance, just as it does in Tamil Nadu. With the deadline for filing nominations approaching on Monday, DMK sources believe that Chief Minister MK Stalin may make a significant decision regarding the alliance in Puducherry on Friday or Saturday.

Rangasamy's Temple Visits

On Thursday, Chief Minister Rangasamy visited temples in the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu, including the Sri Sarguru Appa Paithiyam Swamigal Temple in Salem. He also offered prayers at the Subramanya Swamy Temple in Tiruchendur and the Meenakshi Temple in Madurai. Notably, he was accompanied by no party members during these visits, and according to AINRC sources, Rangasamy sought divine blessings for the success of his party's candidates and those of their alliance partners in the upcoming assembly elections. During his travel on the Madurai-Thoothukudi highway, election officials conducted a check on the Chief Minister's vehicle.