In a firm statement aimed at quelling swirling political rumours, Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC) president K Selvaperunthagai has asserted that the party's alliance with the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) remains strong and unbroken. He categorically dismissed any notion of the Congress exploring alternative political partnerships in the state.
No Discussion on Leaving DMK-Led Front
Addressing reporters in New Delhi, Selvaperunthagai refuted speculations about internal discussions on seeking other alliance possibilities. He clarified that no such talks had taken place within the party. Instead, he revealed that a five-member committee appointed by the Congress national leadership is actively engaged in discussions with the DMK.
"If the option of moving out of the alliance was even on the table, we would not have initiated these formal talks," Selvaperunthagai stated, emphasising the continuity of the partnership. He highlighted the mutual respect and understanding between the two parties, describing it as a bond focused on the welfare of the country.
Confident about the coalition's strength, he likened the INDIA bloc in Tamil Nadu to a "steel fortress" that cannot be broken. When questioned about seat-sharing specifics, particularly rumours of the Congress demanding 40 seats, the TNCC chief declined to divulge details, stating that such strategic information cannot be discussed in a public forum.
Planning for High-Profile Campaigns
Selvaperunthagai was in the national capital to participate in the party's 'Vote Chori' rally held on Sunday. During his visit, he also attended a meeting with Congress MPs, senior functionaries, and the All India Congress Committee (AICC) in-charge for Tamil Nadu, Girish Chodankar.
The primary agenda of this meeting was to chart out plans for the upcoming visits of top Congress leaders to Tamil Nadu. The party is preparing for campaign tours by Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge ahead of the crucial 2026 state assembly elections.
Seat-Sharing Talks Postponed
In a related development, a meeting between TNCC functionaries and Rahul Gandhi, which was scheduled for Monday to discuss alliance strategy and seat-sharing, has been rescheduled. The meeting has been postponed until after the Christmas festivities. This indicates that while the broad alliance framework is settled, the finer details of the partnership will be worked out in the coming weeks.
Selvaperunthagai concluded by expressing confidence in the seasoned leadership of both the Congress and the DMK, asserting that there is no room for conflict between the allies. The focus, he reiterated, remains squarely on preparing a united front for the 2026 electoral battle in Tamil Nadu.
