Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Monday launched a sharp attack on the Congress party for walking out of the ruling DMK-led alliance, accusing it of betraying the people's mandate. Speaking at a public event in Chennai, Stalin asserted that the Congress's decision to sever ties was a calculated move to weaken the coalition that had successfully governed the state since 2021.
Stalin's Criticism of Congress
Stalin expressed disappointment over the Congress's exit, stating that the alliance had worked effectively for the welfare of Tamil Nadu's citizens. He claimed that the Congress had succumbed to pressure from its national leadership, which prioritized its own political gains over the interests of the state. "The Congress party has chosen to leave the alliance at a crucial time, just before the 2026 assembly elections. This is a betrayal of the trust placed in us by the people," Stalin said.
The Chief Minister also highlighted that the DMK had always been committed to secularism and social justice, values that the Congress now seemed to have abandoned. He warned that the Congress's move could benefit the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its allies in the upcoming elections.
Appeal to the Next Government
In his address, Stalin urged the next government, regardless of its political affiliation, to continue the welfare schemes introduced by the DMK administration. He emphasized that programs such as the free bus travel for women, the Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thittam (monthly financial assistance for women), and the free rice distribution had significantly improved the lives of the poor and marginalized.
"These schemes are not just for the DMK's credit; they are for the people of Tamil Nadu. Any future government must ensure their continuation," Stalin asserted. He also called upon the state's bureaucracy to remain neutral and implement policies that prioritize public welfare.
Political Reactions and Alliance Dynamics
The Congress's exit from the DMK alliance has reshaped Tamil Nadu's political landscape ahead of the 2026 elections. The Congress had been a key partner in the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance, which also includes the Communist Party of India (Marxist), the Communist Party of India, and other smaller parties. The Congress's departure is seen as a response to the DMK's growing dominance and its reluctance to share power or seats.
Political analysts suggest that the Congress may be eyeing an independent path or a possible alignment with other opposition parties. Meanwhile, the DMK is expected to consolidate its base and may seek new allies to fill the void left by the Congress.
DMK's Welfare Legacy
Stalin's government has been widely praised for its welfare initiatives, which have become a cornerstone of its popularity. The free bus travel scheme for women, launched in 2021, has benefited millions of women across the state. Similarly, the Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thittam provides monthly financial aid of Rs 1,000 to eligible women from economically weaker sections.
The DMK has also focused on infrastructure development, education, and healthcare. Stalin urged the opposition to avoid politicizing these schemes and instead work towards their effective implementation.
As the 2026 elections approach, the political scenario in Tamil Nadu remains fluid. The DMK will need to navigate the challenges posed by the Congress's exit while fending off challenges from the AIADMK and the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance.
