Chennai – As Tamil Nadu prepares for upcoming elections, a potential political alignment between the state Congress party and actor Vijay‘s newly formed Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) is facing immediate headwinds. Despite speculation that TVK might offer support, the state Congress leadership has publicly stated it does not require the endorsement of Vijay’s organization, asserting confidence in its own grassroots strength and the leadership of Rahul Gandhi.The exchange follows comments from vijay’s father suggesting openness to bolstering the Congress party’s standing, setting the stage for a complex negotiation amid existing alliance concerns.
CHENNAI – The Tamil Nadu Congress party has stated it does not need the support of actor Vijay’s political organization, Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK), as it prepares for upcoming elections. The declaration from the state’s Congress leadership comes after suggestions that Vijay’s group was considering backing the party.
Tamil Nadu Congress Committee President K. Selvaperunthagai dismissed the need for TVK’s endorsement, asserting the party is energized by its own members and the leadership of Rahul Gandhi. “Look at our workers, they are already energized. Our leader Rahul Gandhi is providing the necessary ‘boost, Horlicks, and Bournvita,’” Selvaperunthagai said.
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The statement follows comments from S.A. Chandrasekhar, Vijay’s father, film producer, and director, who indicated TVK was open to supporting the Congress party in the upcoming legislative elections. Chandrasekhar told reporters that the Congress party has a history and tradition, but has been declining in strength. He added that while the Congress party fought for independence, it has recently been supporting other parties, and that Vijay is prepared to help them regain their former prominence. The state party leadership’s response appears to directly counter these remarks.
Despite the public rejection, speculation persists that the “boost” from TVK might be necessary for the Congress party. Concerns are growing about a potential rift in the party’s relationship with its current alliance partner, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK). Should the DMK be unwilling to share power if it wins a fourth consecutive term, the Congress party may withdraw from the alliance. The Congress party has previously found success in partnership with the DMK, winning elections together in 2019, 2024, and 2021.
So far, the DMK has not signaled a willingness to share power. However, after winning nine seats in the 2024 elections and 18 of 25 contested seats in 2021, the Congress party is pushing for a greater share in the government. Reports indicate the Congress party is seeking at least six ministerial positions. The two parties have yet to reach an agreement on seat allocation for the next election, and the Congress party, buoyed by its recent performance, reportedly wants to contest at least 35 of the 234 seats in Tamil Nadu. The DMK, however, is unwilling to concede more than 19 seats.
Political observers suggest a potential alliance between the Congress party and TVK cannot be entirely ruled out, however unlikely. Congress sources acknowledge that TVK’s offer – including the potential for ministerial positions if the alliance secures more than 60 seats – could become attractive. This development underscores the shifting political landscape in Tamil Nadu as parties position themselves for the upcoming elections.
Content Highlights: Tamil Nadu Congress rejects support from actor Vijay`s TVK party for upcoming elections. State chief clarifies party`s stance, citing Rahul Gandhi`s leadership.
Published: 29 Jan 2026, 08:17 pm IST
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