Congress Legislature Party leader and Killiyoor MLA S. Rajeshkumar’s demand for forming a coalition government in the State next year has sparked a divide within the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC). While some second-tier leaders have rallied behind him, the State leadership is learnt to be displeased with him for voicing an opinion on a politically contentious subject at this time.
Among a section of Congress functionaries, there is a feeling that the ruling DMK has kept allies at a distance, hardly consulting them or hearing their grievances. A senior Congress leader asked why could there not be a coalition government in the State. “The Congress is at the forefront of the ideological battle against the BJP and RSS. Naturally, the cadre feel the party needs to be a part of the coalition to have a say in policy issues,” he contended.
Another senior functionary alleged: “Before the election, the coordination between the two parties is usually great. Joint campaigns set the tone for the election. However, once the government is formed, the Congress is kept at an arm’s length. Our representatives are unable to meet Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, while this was never a problem during Kalaignar’s (M. Karunanidhi) tenure. Mr. Stalin is surrounded by power centres, and it is very difficult to meet him.” He added that there was no discussion with allies regarding policy issues, government schemes, or an interest in seeking feedback or grievances. “The contribution of the Congress in strengthening the secular politics is often understated. We bring much more to the alliance and contribute to the multiplier effect,” the functionary contended.
However, sources close to the TNCC leadership said it was inappropriate for Mr. Rajeshkumar to make his opinions about a coalition government public as it could strain the relationship between the Congress and the DMK.
The MLA’s supporters, on the other hand, claimed that TNCC president K. Selvaperunthagai had made similar statements in September 2024, and Mr. Rajeshkumar has not said anything more than what the cadre had consistently expressed in the past.
Published – September 23, 2025 12:18 am IST
