Days After Launching Party, V. Pugazhendi Pledges Support to DMK

Just days after announcing the launch of his new political party, senior Tamil Nadu politician V. Pugazhendi has declared support for the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), signaling a significant political shift ahead of upcoming electoral developments in the State.

Speaking to reporters, Pugazhendi said that his newly formed outfit would extend support to the DMK-led alliance in the interest of political stability and development in Tamil Nadu. He indicated that the decision was taken after consultations with party members and supporters who believe cooperation with the ruling front would benefit the State’s governance.

Pugazhendi has been an active figure in Tamil Nadu politics and was previously associated with the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) and later with political groups aligned with AIADMK splinter factions. Following the death of former Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa in 2016, the AIADMK faced a major leadership crisis, during which Pugazhendi openly supported Jayalalithaa’s close aide V. K. Sasikala and her nephew T. T. V. Dhinakaran.

At that time, several factions emerged within the AIADMK, with leaders taking different sides in the struggle for control of the party and government. Pugazhendi had backed the Sasikala–Dhinakaran camp, which later formed its own political platform separate from the main AIADMK leadership.

Political observers say Pugazhendi’s latest move to support the DMK reflects the continuing realignments in Tamil Nadu politics, particularly as parties and smaller groups attempt to position themselves strategically in the evolving political landscape. The DMK, led by Chief Minister M. K. Stalin, has been expanding its alliance by bringing smaller parties and regional leaders into its fold ahead of future electoral contests.

Pugazhendi said his new party will work with the DMK to promote policies focused on welfare, development and political stability in the State. However, he did not immediately provide details about the structure of the alliance or whether his party would contest elections independently while supporting the DMK.

The announcement has sparked discussions among political analysts, who say the move could further reshape alliances in Tamil Nadu’s competitive political arena, especially with multiple parties and factions trying to strengthen their presence before the next round of elections.