Rajya Sabha Nominations to Begin on February 27; DMK, AIADMK Yet to Name Candidates

The nomination process for the biennial elections to the Rajya Sabha from Tamil Nadu will commence on February 27, even as the State’s two principal Dravidian parties are yet to announce their candidates.
The ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the opposition All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) have the required numbers in the Assembly to secure four and two seats respectively, with the backing of their alliance partners. However, both parties have delayed formal announcements amid growing pressure from allies seeking representation in the Upper House.
Within the DMK-led front, the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) and the Indian National Congress are reportedly pressing for seats. The Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MDMK) has also staked its claim, with its general secretary Vaiko said to be in contention. Sources indicate that the DMK leadership is still weighing its options and has not finalised its list.
On the opposition side, the AIADMK is also managing demands from alliance partners. The Tamil Maanila Congress (TMC) and a faction of the Pattali Makkal Katchi led by Anbumani Ramadoss are understood to be seeking a berth. However, internal discussions within the AIADMK reportedly suggest that only one of the two seats may be allotted to an ally.
With nominations set to open on February 27, both the DMK and AIADMK are expected to finalise their candidates soon as alliance negotiations gather pace.