Amid swirling speculation about its political strategy for the upcoming Tamil Nadu assembly elections, the Congress party has firmly ruled out moving closer to the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) led by actor Vijay. Instead, the party is pushing for a respectful power-sharing agreement with its long-time ally, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK).
Congress Stands Firm on Alliance with DMK
Girish Chodankar, the All India Congress Committee (AICC) member in charge of party affairs in Tamil Nadu, clarified the party's position in an exclusive interview. He emphasized that the DMK remains the Congress's most trusted ally and that the alliance cannot be broken easily. However, he stressed the need for the Congress to be treated as an equal partner. "We should be treated as equals," Chodankar stated, highlighting the core of their current negotiations.
The Congress leader disclosed that a five-member team from the party met DMK president M. K. Stalin on December 3. During this meeting, they proposed that all alliance matters be settled by December 15 to allow for an aggressive grassroots campaign. "The ball is in their court," Chodankar said, indicating that the DMK's response is now awaited.
Seat Sharing and Internal Dynamics
On the crucial question of seat allocation, Chodankar revealed that internal proposals range from 38 to 41 seats. The figure of 38 stems from a suggestion to contest at least one seat in every district of the state, while 41 matches the number of seats the party contested in the previous election. He promised that the final number would be communicated soon.
The interview also touched upon recent meetings between AICC member Praveen Chakravarty and TVK president Vijay, which had fueled alliance rumors. Chodankar dismissed any political significance, suggesting Chakravarty, who is also in the film business, might have met for professional reasons. "God knows whether it was some business they discussed or if they were going to have idli or dosa," he remarked, adding that he did not believe the DMK had any issues with the meeting.
Addressing Challenges and Infighting
Chodankar identified the RSS-sponsored BJP as the party's main national rival and the "enemy of Tamil Nadu and the country." While the AIADMK is not a national enemy, he stated the Congress would have to fight all opponents in the election, including TVK if it contests independently.
Responding to questions about internal dissent, including comments from Congress MP Jyothimani and the resignation of TNCC member Surya Prakashan, Chodankar downplayed the issues. He described infighting as a part of any democratic organization, present even in journalism groups and rival parties like the AIADMK and BJP. He defended TNCC chief Selvaperunthagai, stating he has a good equation with the Chief Minister but ultimately listens to the AICC leadership.
On the sensitive issue of the Karur stampede, Chodankar said the Congress would not politicize the tragedy, noting that an investigation is underway. He confirmed that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had called both Chief Minister Stalin and Vijay after the incident, calling it an act of kindness.
As the election clock ticks, the Congress's clear message is one of asserting its stature within the DMK-led front, seeking dignity and a fair share of power, while firmly closing the door on any alternative alliance with TVK for now.
