Congress Leadership Issues Firm Directive to Tamil Nadu Unit
In a significant move to curb internal dissent, the Congress party's top leadership has issued a clear directive to its Tamil Nadu leaders. The instruction demands strict discipline and a unified public stance regarding the party's alliance strategy for the upcoming state assembly elections.
High-Command Meeting Addresses Alliance Speculation
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge chaired a crucial meeting at the party headquarters in New Delhi on Saturday. Former party chief Rahul Gandhi attended the session alongside other senior figures. The gathering focused on formulating an election strategy for Tamil Nadu, where polls are scheduled around May.
During the nearly three-and-a-half-hour discussion, leaders from Tamil Nadu and Puducherry presented their views. The meeting heard different perspectives within the party about potential alliances. Some members advocate for negotiating a power-sharing arrangement with the DMK if the alliance secures victory. Others suggest exploring ties with actor Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazagham, considering broader prospects for Congress in neighboring states like Kerala.
Unified Decision-Making and Public Discipline
K.C. Venugopal, AICC general secretary in-charge of organization, addressed reporters after the meeting. He emphasized that the leadership patiently listened to all opinions during both collective and individual sessions. Venugopal stated the discussions were constructive and centered on strengthening the party's position in Tamil Nadu.
The party high command has unanimously entrusted Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi with decision-making authority. Venugopal confirmed that appropriate decisions regarding election strategy would be taken in due course, keeping in mind party ideology and the interests of Tamil Nadu's people.
Clear Instructions to Avoid Speculation
Venugopal revealed the specific directive issued to all leaders. They must maintain discipline and refrain from making statements on alliance matters, including on social media platforms. Leaders have been advised to avoid speculation and speak with one voice in alignment with party decisions.
When questioned about internal views regarding power-sharing with the DMK, Venugopal reiterated that concerns of over forty leaders present at the meeting were heard individually and collectively. He acknowledged different viewpoints exist within the party and assured that discussions from this meeting would guide future decisions.
Leadership Perspectives and Social Media Messaging
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge shared a video clip from the meeting on social media platform X. In his post, he expressed confidence that Tamil Nadu's people would choose equality, social justice, empowerment, and good governance over what he described as bigotry, sectarianism, and anti-federal politics.
"The Congress party is determined to play an important role in fulfilling the aspirations of the people of the state," Kharge stated in his social media message.
Sources indicate Rahul Gandhi adopted a listening approach during the meeting, allowing Kharge to articulate the directions issued to Tamil Nadu leaders. The focus remained on ensuring party members present a unified front and avoid public disagreements that could fuel speculation.
The meeting included prominent figures such as Tamil Nadu Congress chief K. Selvaperunthagai, MPs P. Chidambaram, Manickam Tagore, Karti Chidambaram, and Professionals' Congress chief Praveen Chakravarty. Their presence underscored the importance of achieving consensus within the state unit ahead of critical electoral battles.
