- By Chetna Shree
- Fri, 08 May 2026 04:53 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
- Kanimozhi requests separate Lok Sabha seating for DMK.
- Cites end of alliance with Indian National Congress.
- Political shift in Tamil Nadu prompts the move.
Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi has written to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, requesting to change the seating arrangements for the party's MPs in the House.
"I write to respectfully request suitable changes in the seating arrangement of the MP belonging to the DMK in the Lok Sabha," Kanimozhi said in a letter dated May 7.
DMK MP Kanimozhi has written a letter to the Lok Sabha Speaker, requesting a change of seating arrangement in the Lok Sabha.
— ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2026
"I write to respectfully request suitable changes in the seating arrangement of the MP belonging to the DMK in the Lok Sabha. In view of the changed… pic.twitter.com/nFFsjQmFnt
Kanimozhi highlighted that, given the 'changed political circumstances' and the end of the DMK's alliance with the Indian National Congress, it is no longer appropriate for party members to be seated alongside them in the House.
"In view of the changed political circumstances and as our alliance with the Indian National Congress has come to an end, it may not be appropriate for our Members to continue occupying the present seating arrangement alongside them in the House," the DMK MP from Thoothukudi said.
She urged the Speaker to make separate seating for the members of the DMK parliamentary party, allowing the MPs to perform their duties in the Lok Sabha more effectively.
"I therefore request your good office to kindly make the necessary arrangements for the Hon'ble Members of the DMK Parliamentary Party to be allotted separate seating, enabling them to effectively discharge their responsibilities in the August House. I shall be grateful for your kind consideration in this regard," she added.
This move comes amid a significant shift in the political landscape in Tamil Nadu. While the DMK and Congress have been long-term allies, recent developments have strained the relationship between the two parties.
According to a report by Jagran.com, citing sources, the Speaker's office is currently reviewing the letter. Any changes to seating arrangements in Lok Sabha are made in accordance with parliamentary conventions, under which the Speaker's decision is final.
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Congress Breaks Alliance With DMK, Extends Support To TVK
The political landscape in Tamil Nadu has changed after the newly formed Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) defeated the DMK in the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. TVK emerged as the single largest party, securing 107 seats. Following this, the Congress party distanced itself from the DMK to support the TVK, leading to a breakdown in the long-standing relationship between the former allies.
