The Tamil Manila Congress on Jan. 20, said that the AIADMK will contest in the Erode East constituency by-poll. If reports are to be believed, former minister KV Ramalingam is likely to contest from the seat. In a statement, GK Vasan said, "AIADMK wanted to contest in the by-elections considering the current political situation and future elections." "This decision has been taken with the welfare of the people and the welfare of the alliance parties in mind," it said. It may be noted that AIADMK officials met GK Vasan on Jan. 19, and held discussions regarding the Erode East constituency by-election. The day after the meeting, the TMC party made this announcement.