Chennai, March 25: Kamal Haasan, the founder of Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) and a prominent actor, made a significant announcement on Tuesday. He declared that his party will not contest any seats directly in the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections and will provide unconditional support to candidates from the DMK-led alliance.
In his statement, Haasan said, “In the last parliamentary elections, we decided to join the DMK-led alliance for the welfare of the nation. We worked tirelessly for the alliance’s victory, and MNM’s voice was heard in the Rajya Sabha. Since then, we have maintained the principles of the alliance without compromising our identity.”
Negotiations regarding seat sharing for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections took place in two phases. Haasan appreciated the respect and cordial behavior shown by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and DMK leaders. He emphasized that in the current challenging environment, the victory of the alliance is paramount. However, he noted that the number of seats offered to MNM and the suggestion to contest under the ‘Rising Sun’ symbol was unacceptable to the party.
Haasan stressed, “There is a deep emotional connection between our workers and the ‘Battery Torch’ election symbol. It is not just a symbol; it represents our identity. I cannot disregard the sentiments of my selfless workers who have stood by me for nine years.”
He further stated that the rights of Tamil Nadu are being undermined, and at such a time, it is inappropriate to ask, ‘What is our share?’ This is not a sacrifice but a duty. Haasan referred to this as the seed of a new political culture, stating that respectfully declining something given with love is also a form of affection.
He concluded, “We openly declare that Makkal Needhi Maiam will not contest directly in the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections and will support DMK alliance candidates unconditionally.” He thanked party workers and officials, emphasizing that this decision honors their sentiments.
Haasan reiterated that Tamil Nadu is his family and highlighted the need for a ‘Dravidian Model 2.0’ government based on the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi, Periyar, and Dr. Ambedkar.
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