High-Stakes Clash: Puducherry's Assembly Polls Heat Up

Political momentum rises in Puducherry with intensified seat-sharing discussions as the assembly elections approach. The NDA and INDIA blocs are strategizing to secure alliances. Key issues include CM Rangasamy's push for statehood and internal divisions within coalitions. Nomination filing deadlines are near, with nearly 9.44 lakh voters participating.

Political activities in Puducherry have reached fever pitch as parties engage in vigorous seat-sharing negotiations and candidate finalizations ahead of the assembly polls scheduled for April 9.

Both the NDA and INDIA blocs are scrambling to resolve internal disputes and fortify their respective alliances. The electoral contest for Puducherry's 30 assembly seats, which include 23 in Puducherry, five in Karaikal, and one each in Mahe and Yanam regions, is intensifying. The AINRC-BJP alliance, currently in power, has demarcated the 16 seats it will compete for, leaving 14 for the BJP, which must also accommodate the AIADMK.

The INDIA bloc, comprising the Congress and DMK, continues its deliberations on leadership and seat allocation. Meanwhile, CM Rangasamy's demand for full statehood, aimed at ensuring effective governance and scheme implementation, remains a cornerstone of the ruling coalition's campaign. The statutory notification publication marked the official start of the election process, with key dates for nominations, paper scrutiny, and withdrawals imminent. A total of 9.44 lakh voters are anticipated to participate in this prestige-laden face-off, further complicated by the entry of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam.

(With inputs from agencies.)