If the BJP is scouting for new allies, it should apparently cross the DMK off its list.
“We have no such idea or plan (of supporting the BJP). We intend to support a secular party if at all,” said TKS Elangovan, a leader from the regional party from Tamil Nadu that’s headed by M Karunanidhi.
“Who asked them anyway? They are all criminals,” retorted Subramanian Swamy of the BJP, provoking Mr. Elgangovan to describe him as “the biggest blabberer on earth.”
Exit polls show the BJP, powered by its prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi, getting enough seats to form the government with its existing allies. A majority of 272 seats is needed to form a government.
Knitting together more partners could be important for the BJP to construct a more stable coalition.
The DMK’s denial of interest comes as its political rival, the AIADMK, headed by J Jayalalithaa, has indicated it is open to suggestions. “Let’s wait for the results,” Ms Jayalalithaa, the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, said yesterday. But today, she expelled a party man who had said the AIADMK would partner with Mr. Modi.
Both the DMK and the AIADMK have in the past been partners of the BJP in the NDA government at the Centre.
The BJP fought this year’s election in a rainbow alliance with five regional parties in Tamil Nadu and is forecast to win two seats.
