Congress High Command Summons Tamil Nadu Leaders to Delhi for Crucial Meetings
In a significant political move, the Congress high command has summoned senior Tamil Nadu Congress leaders and the newly appointed district presidents to New Delhi on Tuesday. This gathering aims to address key organizational and strategic matters ahead of the upcoming elections.
Training Session and Rahul Gandhi's Interaction
TNCC president K Selvaperunthagai confirmed that the district presidents have been invited to Delhi for a comprehensive training session. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is expected to interact directly with these district presidents, providing guidance and insights into party operations.
Following this, Rahul Gandhi will meet with senior leaders to assess the alliance dynamics in Tamil Nadu. According to a TNCC leader, "Rahul would be seeking the views of the senior leaders on alliance and seat sharing in TN," highlighting the focus on collaborative strategy.
Context and Recent Developments
This meeting occurs shortly after DMK MP Kanimozhi met with Rahul Gandhi in Delhi, amid discussions among some Congress functionaries advocating for a power-sharing arrangement. Notably, senior TN Congress leaders had a similar meeting with Rahul Gandhi on January 18, indicating ongoing efforts to strengthen party cohesion.
Congress sources reveal that the meeting will also review the party's preparedness for the 2026 assembly elections and evaluate district-level structures following recent organizational changes.
Participants and Training Details
All 76 newly appointed district presidents are set to participate in the training program, alongside key figures such as Selvaperunthagai, Congress legislative party leader S Rajeshkumar, and AICC in-charge for TN Girish Chodankar. Rahul Gandhi will be joined by AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge, AICC general secretary K C Venugopal, and former Union finance minister P Chidambaram.
TNCC spokesperson A Gopanna stated, "This is the first training session. The second session will be held after the assembly election," emphasizing the phased approach to capacity building.
Merit-Based Appointments and Monitoring
The district presidents were appointed based on merit, moving away from the previous 'quota system,' where TNCC leaders allocated posts to supporters. Gopanna added, "Their functioning will be directly monitored by the AICC," ensuring accountability and performance.
As part of the training, district presidents will be briefed on the poll strategy to be adopted, equipping them with the tools needed for effective campaigning and voter engagement.
