As the Assembly election approaches and coalition arithmetic sharpens, the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) has brought Puratchi Thamizhagam into its fold, further expanding its alliance base.

The development follows a meeting in Chennai between Puratchi Thamizhagam leader Airport Moorthy and AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami at the latter’s residence. Moorthy, accompanied by supporters, called on Palaniswami in what party sources described as a decisive political engagement rather than a routine courtesy visit.

With the election drawing closer, major parties have intensified efforts to secure the backing of smaller outfits and community-based organisations. In recent days, several groups from the Kongu region have announced support for the AIADMK. At the same time, seat-sharing discussions within the alliance are understood to be under way, signalling a shift from preliminary outreach to structured negotiations.

Seat-sharing talks with the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) are learnt to have been concluded. Consultations are also ongoing to finalise arrangements with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK), according to party sources.

In a related move, G. K. Vasan met Palaniswami at his residence, underscoring the steady political consultations taking place ahead of the polls. The addition of Puratchi Thamizhagam is being viewed in political circles as part of a calibrated effort by the AIADMK to consolidate its support base.

Sources further said that A.C. Shanmugam, leader of the Puthiya Needhi Katchi, aligned with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), held discussions with Palaniswami on seat-sharing. Tamil Maanila Muslim League leader Sheikh Dawood is also said to have met the AIADMK leadership to affirm his party’s position within the alliance framework.

Following the meeting, Airport Moorthy announced his party’s support for the AIADMK-led alliance in the forthcoming Assembly election. With negotiations continuing on multiple fronts, the AIADMK appears focused on broadening its coalition as it prepares for an increasingly competitive electoral contest.