The Congress party is poised to return to the Tamil Nadu cabinet after a gap of 59 years, as two of its MLAs — Rajesh Kumar and P Vishwanathan — are set to take oath as ministers in the government led by Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). This development marks a historic political shift in the state and has drawn sharp criticism from the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), which accused Congress of betraying the alliance following the 2026 Assembly elections.
Historic Political Shift
The inclusion of Congress ministers in the TVK-led government ends a nearly six-decade-long absence from the state cabinet. The last time Congress held a ministerial position in Tamil Nadu was in 1967, before the party's influence waned in the region. The move is seen as a strategic expansion by Vijay, who aims to consolidate his government's base by bringing in experienced legislators from established parties.
DMK's Strong Reaction
The DMK, which had an alliance with Congress during the 2026 Assembly polls, expressed outrage over the decision. Party leaders accused Congress of backstabbing the coalition by joining hands with TVK after the elections. DMK spokesperson said, "This is a clear betrayal of the mandate and the alliance. Congress has chosen power over principles." The DMK has called for a review of its future ties with Congress at the national level.
Congress leaders, however, defended the move, stating that it was in the best interest of the state's development. Rajesh Kumar said, "Our priority is to serve the people of Tamil Nadu. Joining the TVK government allows us to implement welfare schemes and address key issues facing the state." P Vishwanathan added that the decision was taken after consultations with the party high command.
TVK's Expanding Coalition
Vijay's TVK has been steadily expanding its coalition since forming the government. The inclusion of Congress is expected to strengthen the government's legislative majority and bring in diverse perspectives. Political analysts view this as a move to counter the DMK's strong opposition and ensure stability in the state administration.
The swearing-in ceremony is expected to take place later this week, with Rajesh Kumar and P Vishwanathan being allotted key portfolios. Details of the ministerial assignments are yet to be announced, but sources indicate that they may handle departments related to rural development and public works.
Reactions from Other Parties
Other political parties in Tamil Nadu have also reacted to the development. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticized the Congress for its opportunistic politics, while the Dravidian parties expressed concern over the shifting alliances. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) called it a sign of political instability in the state.
As Tamil Nadu witnesses this significant political realignment, all eyes are on how the DMK and Congress will navigate their future relationship, both at the state and national levels.
