Not contesting this time, will be DMK's star campaigner; decision is for the sake of country: Kamal Hassan

CHENNAI: Actor and Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) leader Kamal Haasan has said that he will come forward as the star campaigner of the ruling party DMK in Tamil Nadu in the Lok Sabha elections. He also stated that he will not contest the election this time. Kamal Haasan made the announcement after meeting Chief Minister MK Stalin in Chennai. Instead, it is agreed that Kamal Haasan will be given the vacant Rajya Sabha seat next year.

"My party MNM and I are not contesting this election. However, all necessary support to the alliance will be provided. We are not united for any position, but for the country' - he said. The meeting with Stalin came as part of the official joining of the Kamal Haasan-led Makkal Needhi Maiam with DMK alliance. The DMK alliance is facing the Lok Sabha elections this time with the common goal of defeating the BJP. This is the first time MNM has entered into an alliance with DMK.

It is reported that MNM will campaign for DMK for 39 Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu and one seat in Puducherry. Kamal Haasan had earlier revealed that the talks for a political alliance are going on. Kamal Haasan had also stated that MNM will support any party that prioritizes the good of the country.