In talks with 'like-minded' parties for alliance, says Kamal Haasan

Veteran actor and Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) founder Kamal Haasan on Wednesday said he is in talks with "like-minded" parties for a possible electoral alliance for the April 6 assembly election.

Reiterating that he is keen on forging ties with "good people", Haasan said several parties have initiated discussions for a possible alliance with the MNM and he "shook hands" with the All India Samathuva Makkal Katchi (AISMK).

"Many parties are holding discussions and some like the AISMK shook hands. We will decide on alliance first before a confab on seat-sharing," Haasan told reporters here when his attention was drawn to AISMK founder R Sarath Kumar's assertion that an alliance between the two parties has been firmed up. Addressing his party's general council meeting Thoothukudi earlier in the day, Sarath Kumar claimed his party has firmed up an electoral alliance with the MNM and that Haasan will be its chief ministerial candidate.

"After hectic talks, poll ties was confirmed five minutes before midnight yesterday. In principle, we have decided to journey together. Kamal Haasan will be the chief minister candidate for the emerging alliance," Kumar said. Haasan said MNM is committed to ensuring the dignity and recognition of homemakers.