Speculations of a leadership change in Tamil Nadu Congress have once again gained ground following reports that the party high command is dissatisfied with TNCC president K Selvaperunthagai. Similar discussions had emerged a year ago when 18 district presidents complained to party leader Rahul Gandhi, seeking action against Selvaperunthagai. He managed to retain his position at that time, but party functionaries now believe the current situation appears uncertain for him.
Reasons for dissatisfaction
Party leaders point to multiple factors behind the dissatisfaction. One key issue is Selvaperunthagai's firm backing of the alliance with DMK, even as a section within the party favored exploring ties with TVK, led by Vijay. With exit polls suggesting a sizeable vote share for TVK, some leaders now believe the party may have missed an opportunity. Another trigger was a translation lapse during Rahul Gandhi's public meeting in Ponneri, which led to a wave of online criticism. Selvaperunthagai was subsequently absent from Rahul's next rally in Kanyakumari, a move that raised eyebrows within the party. This was the first time a state Congress chief was not present at Rahul Gandhi's election campaign, a senior TNCC leader noted.
Previous hints and recent comments
Selvaperunthagai, who took over from K S Alagiri ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, had himself hinted at possible changes in TNCC post-election, but later retracted the remark. Recent comments by AICC in-charge Girish Chodankar about structural changes at the grassroots have further fueled speculation. However, Selvaperunthagai refuted the rumors. There are no such talks among the AICC leadership. They are mere rumors, and I will continue to be the TNCC president even after the election results, he told ToI.
Probable successors
Meanwhile, Sathyamurthy Bhavan is abuzz with names of probable successors for Selvaperunthagai. Sources in TNCC said that MPs Karti Chidambaram, Manickam Tagore, and S Jothimani are in the race, along with some senior leaders. There could be surprises too as Rahul wants fresh energy to be infused, a functionary stated.
