Udhayanidhi Stalin, a prominent leader of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the son of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, launched a scathing attack on the Congress party for its decision to support actor Vijay's political party, Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK). Speaking at a public event in Chennai on May 24, 2026, Udhayanidhi accused the Congress of stabbing the DMK in the back and declared that his party would never trust the Congress again.
Allegations of Betrayal
Udhayanidhi stated that the Congress had betrayed the DMK by aligning with TVK, which he described as a party led by a film star with no political experience. He recalled the long-standing alliance between the DMK and Congress, emphasizing that the DMK had always stood by the Congress in times of need. However, he claimed that the Congress had now chosen to side with TVK for short-term electoral gains, disregarding the principles of the alliance.
"The Congress has stabbed us in the back. We will not forget this betrayal. They have chosen a star over a steadfast ally. From now on, we cannot trust them," Udhayanidhi said, drawing applause from the audience.
Political Implications
The rift between the DMK and Congress comes ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu assembly elections. The Congress's decision to support TVK is seen as a move to counter the growing influence of the DMK and its allies. Political analysts suggest that this development could reshape the political landscape in the state, potentially leading to a three-cornered contest involving the DMK, the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), and the newly formed TVK.
Udhayanidhi's remarks have intensified the war of words between the two parties. Congress leaders have defended their decision, stating that they are open to alliances with any party that shares their vision for Tamil Nadu. However, the DMK remains firm in its stance, with Udhayanidhi asserting that his party will contest the upcoming elections independently or with other like-minded parties.
Reactions from Political Circles
The Congress's support for TVK has drawn mixed reactions. While some view it as a pragmatic move to expand the anti-DMK front, others criticize it as opportunistic. TVK leader Vijay welcomed the Congress's support, calling it a step towards building a strong opposition. Meanwhile, the AIADMK has remained silent on the matter, focusing on its own campaign strategies.
Udhayanidhi's strong words signal a potential end to the decades-old alliance between the DMK and Congress in Tamil Nadu. As the election season heats up, all eyes are on how this political drama unfolds in the coming months.
