Congress Cornered in Tamil Nadu After DMK Rejects Power-Sharing Demand
In a significant political development in Chennai, the Congress party appears to have bitten off more than it can chew in its alliance with the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK). Following Chief Minister M.K. Stalin's outright rejection of the Congress's demand for power-sharing in the coalition government, the national party has been pushed into a tight corner with only two viable options remaining.
Limited Options for Congress
Political observers note that the Congress must either swallow its pride and accept the DMK's dominant position or walk out of the alliance entirely, rejecting the DMK's refusal to accommodate its coalition government demands. A third option—persuading the DMK to change its mind—appears remote, as Stalin's approach was well-calibrated and assertive.
Stalin has effectively asserted the DMK's dominance within the alliance while reminding the Congress of the ground realities in Tamil Nadu. By stating that "power sharing will not suit Tamil Nadu," the chief minister has signaled that the DMK will not dilute its authority, even as it depends on allies electorally.
Strategic Diplomacy from Stalin
At the same time, Stalin was careful to stress that the alliance will continue, indicating that the DMK does not want to strain the relationship further. In referencing "forces trying to create a divide," he chose to avoid direct confrontation with the Congress, implying that he was not rejecting a demand of the entire Congress party but rather that of certain elements within it.
Political commentator Suguna Diwakar highlighted that a large number of Congress functionaries are not particularly insistent on a share in power and that the party is likely to remain with the DMK. "There is no strong demand from the Congress leadership for a share in power. None of the party top brass was adamant about their demand. Only stray voices like AICC functionary Praveen Chakravarty and Congress MP Manickam Tagore made these demands," Diwakar said.
Diwakar added, "At least now they are strong with 18 MLAs, and if they join an untested player like Vijay, they will be reduced to a minor party in the state."
Internal Divisions and Alternative Alliances
However, political analyst T.S.S. Mani presented a contrasting view, suggesting that a majority of Congress cadres and functionaries wish to align with the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). He told sources that AICC general secretary K.C. Venugopal believes TVK president Vijay has a considerable fan base in Kerala and other southern states.
"Congress leaders feel that this support base will help the party in the 2029 elections," Mani explained, indicating potential strategic shifts within the party.
Cautious Approach by Congress
For now, the Congress has adopted a cautious and measured approach. Statements from Congress MP Manickam Tagore, who suggested "let the people decide," and Tamil Nadu Congress Committee president K. Selvaperunthagai, who noted that a final decision would be taken by Rahul Gandhi, reflect this careful strategy as the party navigates its precarious position in Tamil Nadu politics.
