Well, they may say, 'No.' The fact remains that the coming together of DMDK, MDMK, and Viduthalai Chruththaikal Katchi along with the CPI and CPI(M) in Tamil Nadu cannot be ignored by seasoned political observers. The occasion was the observing in Chennai on Thursday of a state-wide fast to protest against the Government of India extending help to the Sri Lankan Army. The fast was organized by the Communist Party of India to 'condemn military action against Tamils in Sri Lanka and attacks on Tamil fishermen.'

With the elections to the Lok Sabha months away, political realignments have already commenced. The meeting between the DMDK leader and leftist parties a few weeks ago had raised several political eye-brows. Their coming together on the same platform cannot be considered accidental - especially in an election year.

The MDMK was there though its senior ally AIADMK was not present. In fact at a recent press conference the AIADMK leader had said that she would consider her party's participation in any joint agitation. CPI state secretary D. Pandian said the AIADMK had written to him confirming the party's participation. According to Pandian, former minister S. Muthusamy was to have participated. Perhaps the AIADMK is still weighing the pros and cons.

The most intriguing aspect was the participation of Thol Thirumavalavan, leader of the Viduthalai Chiruthaikal Katchi (VCK), which is an ally of the ruling DMK. This might perhaps have kept the AIADMK at bay!

Pazha Nedumaran, leader of the Tamil Nationalist Movement and the Sri Lankan MP Sivajilingam also participated in the agitation.

I have little doubt that this is indeed a prelude to an alliance in Tamil Nadu. Let's wait and watch.

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