Congress Refuses to Drop Power-Sharing Demand in Tamil Nadu
Congress continues to press for a share in power in Tamil Nadu. This demand persists even after DMK clearly rejected the idea of forming a coalition government. The political tension is growing as both parties hold their ground.
TNCC President Clarifies Position
Tamil Nadu Congress Committee president K Selvaperunthagai spoke to reporters in Chennai on Monday. He addressed recent comments from DMK deputy general secretary I Periyasamy. Periyasamy had dismissed the Congress power-sharing demand outright.
Selvaperunthagai stated that Periyasamy's remarks represented his personal opinion. He emphasized they do not necessarily reflect the view of Chief Minister M K Stalin. The TNCC president stressed that any decision on power-sharing must involve top leaders from both parties.
"It was Periyasamy's opinion. Any decision on power sharing should be taken by chief minister M K Stalin and Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge," Selvaperunthagai told reporters.
Timing and Political Significance
These statements come just one day before Rahul Gandhi's scheduled visit to Tamil Nadu. This timing lends considerable political significance to the ongoing discussion. Congress appears determined to keep the power-sharing debate open despite DMK's hardening stance.
Periyasamy had stated on Sunday that Stalin remains firm on continuing Tamil Nadu's tradition of single-party rule. He made it clear that DMK is not interested in sharing power with Congress or any other party.
Congress Leaders Echo the Demand
The power-sharing demand finds support among other Congress leaders as well. MP Manickam Tagore posted a brief but pointed message on social media. His post simply said "Share in power" and included a clip from an earlier interview.
In that interview, Tagore had argued strongly for coalition governance. He publicly welcomed Selvaperunthagai's response to Periyasamy's comments. This shows unity within Congress ranks on this issue.
Growing Tension Between Cadres
The issue has sparked sharp exchanges between DMK and Congress cadres on social media platforms. These public arguments have raised concerns within the Congress leadership about potential damage to the alliance.
Former TNCC president Su Thirunavukkarasar expressed worry about the situation. He warned that the public debate could create deeper divisions at the grassroots level between the two parties.
"This discussion on power sharing is not going down well with cadres. Congress and DMK functionaries will find it difficult to work together if this continues," he said. "It should be resolved behind closed doors, not debated in public."
DMK Remains Unmoved
DMK appears unfazed by Congress's persistent demands. DMK organisational secretary R S Bharathi responded to the ongoing discussion. He noted that Congress has raised similar demands during previous elections as well.
"They are free to make such demands, but our position remains unchanged," Bharathi stated firmly. His comments reinforce DMK's consistent position against power-sharing arrangements.
The political landscape in Tamil Nadu remains tense as Congress continues to push for a coalition government. DMK maintains its traditional stance of single-party rule. With Rahul Gandhi's visit imminent, all eyes are on how this power struggle will unfold in the coming days.
