DMK hasn’t softened stance on delimitation; Stalin will never align with BJP: MP Salma
DMK MP speaks about students’ protest in Delhi, party’s demand for debate on Mekedatu Dam and why it won’t back women’s reservation bill at the cost of state rights
The DMK has strongly dismissed speculations that the party, which while in power fought tooth and nail against the central government’s plan to redraw electoral constituencies through delimitation, has softened its stance following its loss in the 2026 Assembly polls.
Clearing the air in an interview with The Federal, DMK MP Salma said while party leader MK Stalin was the first to raise his voice against delimitation, the DMK, a party batting for social justice, would never soften its stance or align with the BJP.
Even as Delhi is witnessing a massive students’ protest over the NEET exam paper leak while the Parliament is in session, the DMK has been demanding that the government hold a debate on the Mekedatu Dam issue in both the Houses.
In the chat with The Federal’s Pramila Krishnan, Salma, while expressing her party’s support for the student protesters, explains why even for the Opposition, protest is the only way left when the government shuts down scope for debate.
What is the DMK’s position on key bills on delimitation and women’s reservation?
Our party leader clearly briefed us before the parliamentary session started that any move affecting Tamil Nadu or its people will never be accepted by the DMK. Preserving our state’s fair representation in Parliament is paramount. While we fully support 33 per cent reservation for women without any hesitation, we oppose linking it with delimitation to introduce new legislation. Delimitation that reduces representation or harms state interests will face strong resistance from us. We support social justice and women's empowerment, but not at the cost of state rights.
Also read: Why delimitation Bills appear more ominous than originally thought
Is there any truth to claims that DMK has softened its stance on delimitation or against the BJP?
That is completely incorrect. We respect our people and our state, and we will never take any decision against Tamil Nadu's interests. The BJP consistently acts against the welfare of the people. DMK president MK Stalin was the first leader to openly protest against delimitation and lead campaigns against it. The DMK is a party rooted in social justice. Rumors suggesting that we are taking a soft stand or warming up to the BJP are entirely baseless. Our leader will never align with the BJP and will always stand with the people. We continue to demand our rights firmly inside Parliament every single day.
Why are DMK MPs protesting against the Mekedatu Dam project in Parliament?
It is extremely unfortunate that an issue concerning state rights and farmers' rights is being ignored. Our party sought permission to discuss this single crucial topic, but the administration is not allowing it. The House has been repeatedly adjourned every 20 minutes over the past two days.
Also read: Why Mekedatu will be an acid test for new CMs DK Shivakumar and Vijay
The government simply does not want to address public issues, which is why time is not being allotted. Earlier, during Zero Hour, MPs could raise urgent matters, but now nothing is permitted. When parliamentary proceedings are completely shut down for discussion, we have no choice but to protest against the government.
How do you respond to the Centre’s appeal for smooth parliamentary debates?
Parliament exists so that representatives can discuss issues affecting the public. We enter Rajya Sabha fully prepared to debate, but who is responsible for the frequent adjournments every 20 minutes? The ruling party creates these conditions and then blames Opposition parties for not allowing the House to function. The public is watching everything. We enter the chamber to raise public grievances, but when we are denied the opportunity, the government adjourns the session. People know who is actually obstructing Parliament.
What is your view on the student protests in Delhi over NEET paper leak and the parliamentary disruptions?
This is a very reasonable protest by the students. Everyone knows about the NEET issue and how many students have lost their lives. The DMK was the first to raise its voice and initiate protests against NEET in Tamil Nadu after several students died by suicide. Youngsters are protesting across the country with a single demand: the resignation of the Union education minister. However, the government is unwilling to listen.
Also read: Why CJP’s protest stands apart from previous mass movements
Activists and students were sitting peacefully at Jantar Mantar on a hunger strike for over 20 days without any violence, yet the police forcibly removed them. Seeing thousands of students gathering in Delhi and marching toward Parliament, only to face severe police atrocities, was deeply shocking. Women were thrown onto the roads, and violence was unleashed against students asking for accountability in a democratic country.
Inside Parliament, DMK leaders like Tiruchi Siva wanted to discuss the Mekedatu dam project, which directly impacts Tamil Nadu’s farmers. Since Karnataka wants to construct a dam there, our agricultural sector will be severely affected. Yet, we are not granted permission or time to discuss these critical matters. When representatives cannot speak inside Parliament, and citizens outside are attacked for protesting injustice, one must ask what remains of democracy.
What is the DMK's stance on the protests at Jantar Mantar?
We fully support the protests against NEET wherever they take place. Our party leader instructed DMK deputy general secretary A Raja to visit the protest site at Jantar Mantar to meet the striking leaders and express our solidarity. Our stand remains clear: we will always support the people and stand firmly against NEET.
How do you react to BJP MP Kangana Ranaut’s claims about regional parties aligning with BJP?
Her statement is completely wrong and reflects an arrogant mindset. She speaks foolishly. The BJP has systematically ruined regional parties across various states by splitting political units and purchasing representatives. However, they cannot do that in Tamil Nadu with the DMK. Claiming that regional parties will surrender to them is nothing but arrogance. Manipulating political parties and buying elected members in different states is not the right way to run a democracy.
Also read: TN will turn into desert if Karnataka builds Mekedatu Dam: Vijay govt in Assembly
How comfortable are DMK MPs with the revised seating arrangement in Parliament?
We are very comfortable in our new seats. The seating arrangements were revised for several parties, including members from the Aam Aadmi Party and Trinamool Congress who were moved to different sections. These organisational decisions are made by the party leadership, and our parliamentary contingent is completely satisfied with the present arrangement.
