Vaiko's MDMK quits DMK-led secular progressive alliance after 9 years

The Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MDMK), led by veteran politician Vaiko, has officially withdrawn from the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA), bringing an end to its nine-year association with the coalition. The decision was announced following a resolution passed at the party's General Council meeting.

The MDMK said it would decide on its future political and electoral alliances at an appropriate time, without naming any potential partners. The move marks a significant shift in Tamil Nadu's political landscape ahead of future elections.

The decision comes amid growing dissatisfaction within the party over its position and treatment in the alliance. In recent weeks, senior MDMK leaders, including principal secretary Durai Vaiko, had publicly expressed concerns, signalling that the party was reconsidering its ties with the DMK-led front.

The MDMK had been part of the Secular Progressive Alliance since 2017 and contested elections alongside the DMK in recent years. While the party has now severed ties with the alliance, it has maintained that any decision on future electoral partnerships will be taken after internal consultations.

Political observers believe the exit could reshape alliance equations in Tamil Nadu as parties begin preparing for upcoming electoral contests.