Tensions are rising within the opposition I.N.D.I alliance in Tamil Nadu as state Congress leaders openly demand a larger share of seats and a firm commitment for a role in the government, moving beyond a mere electoral arrangement.
Rajesh Kumar, the President of the Tamil Nadu Congress Legislature Party, stated that the party will not accept being limited to contesting 25 seats again in the upcoming 2026 assembly elections. He emphasized that the Congress expects “due respect” and a clear path to participation in the cabinet and governance, signalling a hardened stance in future negotiations with the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK).
“This time, if 25 seats are given to the Congress, it will not be acceptable. We cannot continue to function like in the past,” he declared. He added that the party has communicated its position to the national high command and will insist on being part of a coalition government, not just an electoral ally.
The demand stems from a growing sentiment within the state unit that the party is undervalued. In the last elections, the Congress contested 25 seats as part of the DMK-led alliance and won 18. Many leaders had then expressed discontent, feeling the allocation was insufficient compared to the party’s ground strength and historical presence.
Adding a new dimension to Tamil Nadu’s political calculus is the mention of actor Vijay. Kumar revealed that before launching his political party, Vijay had met with Rahul Gandhi and was inclined to join the Congress. However, due to age restrictions for the desired post of Youth Congress President, the move did not materialize. Kumar noted that Vijay has consistently praised Rahul Gandhi and condemned his arrest, drawing attention to a potential, albeit missed, alignment.
Following the massive crowds at Vijay’s recent public rally in Trichy, a section of Congress leaders is reportedly warming to the idea of a potential alliance with the actor, seeing it as a viable alternative to the current partnership with the DMK.
With Rahul Gandhi slated to tour the state after the Bihar elections, the Congress’s strategy for Tamil Nadu is expected to take a definitive shape, potentially altering the dynamics of the opposition alliance.
(With inputs from Dinamalar)
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