NDA takes shape as INDIA bloc struggles in T.N., Puducherry: L. Murugan

The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has taken shape ahead of the Assembly polls in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry but the INDIA bloc is struggling to come together, claimed Union Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs and BJP leader L. Murugan in Puducherry on Saturday (February 7, 2026).

Addressing a press conference, the BJP leader said the electoral strength of the NDA has become evident with the public meeting attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Madurantakam in Chengalpattu district of Tamil Nadu last month. 

“The meeting was a huge success. The gathering at the meeting reflected our strength, and it has become certain that the DMK government [in Tamil Nadu] will face defeat in the elections. The good work done by the NDA government in the Union Territory will help us in retain power in Puducherry,” he said. 

When asked about the chances of Desiya Murpokku Dravidar Kazhagam (DMKDK) joining the NDA fold, the BJP leader said, “Talks are on with several parties, and it will be known very soon. Our alliance is very strong in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.”

To a question on the UT’s demand for inclusion in the ambit of the Finance Commission recommendations, the Union Minister said he would take up the matter with the Centre. 

“The Union Budget was hailed by every section of society as it was prepared with the vision to develop the country. The thrust on growth and infrastructure will help Puducherry gain from the Budget. The territory will benefit from the budgetary outlay for semiconductor and MSME sectors,” he said. 

The Minister said the territorial administration’s decision to develop 750 acres of land at Sedarapet for industrial development would mark a new beginning for industrialisation in the UT. The development of the industrial site would bring jobs and economic prosperity to the region, he added. 

Home Minister A. Namassivayam, former BJP Minister Sai J. Saravanan Kumar, and party president V.P. Ramalingam were present.