Battle lines for RK Nagar bypoll yet to be drawn

BJP fielded popular film director Gangai Amaran and launched a determined campaign. But, the party is yet to make up its mind this time and left the decision to the high command. With anti-saffron parties like the VCK and CPI already backing the DMK candidate, the BJP’s entry is likely to erode the AIADMK’s vote share in the crucial test for survival of the ruling party. 

With the CPI already deciding to support to the DMK, the CPM is aware that it could not have the backing of its Left ally, even if it wanted to put up a candidate. The party had fielded a nominee last time, but it is to be seen if it repeats the same move or tows the CPI line. 

The battle lines for the RK Nagar bypoll will become clearer this week as the leading parties are involved in selection of candidates, while the other parties are seriously deliberating upon the pros and cons of picking up the gauntlet. 

DMDK leader Vijayakanth’s decision to keep away from the polls had left the third front’s space open. The MDMK led by Vaiko had decided to wait and watch the developments in the other parties before making up its mind over throwing its hat in the ring. The party’s high- level committee will meet on December 3 just before the nomination ends. 

The PMK had boycotted the polls again while Naam Thamizhar Katchi is the only party other than the major parties to join the election race announcing Kalaikottudhayam, a television channel proprietor as its nominee again. The nominations for the bypoll had already begun, but the parties have time till December 4. They are likely to finalise their position and strategy before the end of this week to gain a headstart over their rivals.