Though the Left has not yet taken on its allies over the trust vote, state leaders conceded that an understanding like the Democratic Progressive Alliance (DPA) would be difficult before the next election.

In fact, the understanding has been gradually falling apart in recent times. First to go was the MDMK, whose leader controversially aligned with the AIADMK in the last Assembly elections after jumping off the DPA wagon. Next was the PMK, which was eased out for flouting the alliance dharma — the party was often severly critical of the DMK. Now, with the CPI(M) and CPI also parting ways, the DPA is virtually non-existent except for the DMK-Congress tie-up.

However, due to the ground realities, the Left leaders are not expected to unleash their wrath on the DMK, unlike its reaction towards the Congress. Though there is no visible alliance now between the AIADMK and BJP, CPI(M) leaders here are pointing to the fact that both parties had similar views in some of the key issues. “The AIADMK and BJP have opposed the Sethu Samudram project on religious grounds. At present we are not in favour of any pact with the AIADMK for the same reasons,” said a party veteran.

Another reality facing the Left in the state is the absence of a ‘viable’ Third Front. Though there are some smaller parties which are not aligned with any side, many are reportedly keen to stay close to the Congress, given the party’s votebank which has often scripted the victory of its partners.

Some Left leaders said they might prefer to take an issue-based stand in future. They also did not rule out the Left sticking to the same side in opposing communalism (read the BJP). On his part, Karunanidhi has also been careful to take the Left parties along, echoing their view that communalism was the greatest threat facing the country.