Congress still weighing options as it enters negotiating table for T.N. Assembly polls

Congress leaders are expressing concern over the DMK's strategy of accommodating newer parties, which they believe will make it difficult to secure their desired seat allocation for the upcoming Assembly election. A Congress leader criticized the timing of these discussions, stating that the alliance should have addressed these issues six months ago. The DMK, meanwhile, is seeking to bring in smaller parties like Makkal Needhi Maiam and actor Karunas to secure their position in the alliance. A senior member of the VCK believes the DMK's desire for more seats indicates a potential exit strategy by the Congress.