In a significant move, S. Rajeshkumar, the influential leader of the Tamil Nadu Congress Legislative Party and Killiyoor MLA, has revealed that Congress MLAs and various functionaries plan to strongly urge their national leadership, the All India Congress Committee, to push for a coalition government in Tamil Nadu. Their goal is to secure a greater number of seats as part of the DMK-led alliance in the crucial 2026 Assembly election. It’s worth noting that in the previous 2021 elections, the party was allocated 25 seats within this alliance.
When questioned about the possibility of the Congress exploring an alliance with actor Vijay’s newly formed Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, especially if their demands were not met by the DMK, Mr. Rajeshkumar responded thoughtfully. He acknowledged that Mr. Vijay is championing issues also highlighted by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, which is a positive sign. However, he emphasized that the DMK and Congress remain firmly united within the INDIA bloc, with Chief Minister M.K. Stalin at its helm in Tamil Nadu.
Speaking to The Hindu, Mr. Rajeshkumar reiterated the strong desire among Congress MLAs to be an integral part of the State government come 2026. “We are determined to insist that the Congress party receives a greater allocation of seats in Tamil Nadu as part of the INDIA bloc,” he stated. He elaborated on the rationale: “For the Congress to truly flourish in Tamil Nadu, we must participate directly in governance, enabling us to effect tangible change in the lives of the people.”
The MLA highlighted the Congress’s resilience, noting its success in remaining a “vibrant party” in Tamil Nadu despite having been out of state power for almost 58 years. He conceded that an extended period in opposition significantly reduces opportunities for “meaningful interactions” with the populace, making it challenging for any party to grow effectively.
“Despite these hurdles, the Congress continues to command considerable goodwill across Tamil Nadu,” he affirmed. He pointed out that in both Assembly and Lok Sabha elections, voters in Tamil Nadu have consistently supported the alliances that include the Congress.
Mr. Rajeshkumar concluded by emphasizing the public’s positive perception of Rahul Gandhi’s leadership. “The INDIA bloc has achieved remarkable victories in the 2019 and 2024 Lok Sabha elections, as well as the 2021 Assembly poll, largely thanks to the combined campaigning efforts of our leader, Rahul Gandhi, and Mr. Stalin,” he said. “The people of Tamil Nadu firmly stand with the INDIA bloc, and there is no doubt that it will emerge victorious in the upcoming election.”