Indian National Congress ends alliance with DMK, backs Vijay to keep BJP out in Tamil Nadu
In a major political shift in Tamil Nadu, the Indian National Congress has ended its decades-old alliance with the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and extended full support to actor-turned-politician Vijay for government formation.
The Congress said its alliance with Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) is not limited to forming the current government but will continue for future elections, including local body polls, Lok Sabha, and Rajya Sabha.
AICC in-charge Girish Chodankar said the alliance aims to revive the legacy of leaders like Kamaraj, while upholding the social justice ideals of Periyar and the constitutional values of B R Ambedkar.
The Congress made it clear that its support is conditional, stressing that TVK must not align with the Bharatiya Janata Party or any forces it described as “communal.”
The move comes amid efforts by Congress to align with the electoral mandate in Tamil Nadu, where TVK has emerged as the leading force. The party said Vijay had formally requested Congress support to form the government.
Despite this split, Congress leaders indicated that cooperation with DMK could continue at the national level within the INDIA bloc, where multiple parties remain allies despite state-level rivalries.
The decision, however, raises questions over cohesion within the opposition alliance, especially as relations between Rahul Gandhi and M. K. Stalin had already shown signs of strain during the election campaign.
In a joint message, Congress and Vijay emphasised their commitment to forming a secular, progressive government in Tamil Nadu, reflecting what they described as a strong mandate from the people, particularly the youth.
