In a dramatic political shift ahead of key electoral battles, the Indian National Congress on Wednesday extended its support for actor-turned-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), signalling a decisive break from its long-standing alliance with the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK).
The Congress leadership in Tamil Nadu confirmed that it would back TVK in forming the next government in the state, adding that the party intends to be an active partner in governance. Senior leaders of the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC) described the decision as a “forward-looking realignment” aimed at responding to evolving political aspirations in the state.
“This is not merely an electoral arrangement but a governance partnership,” a TNCC spokesperson said, indicating that Congress expects to share ministerial responsibilities in a potential TVK-led administration.
The move marks a significant rupture in Tamil Nadu politics, where Congress and the DMK have maintained a close alliance for decades, both at the state and national levels. Political observers note that the break could reshape coalition arithmetic, weaken the DMK’s traditional support base, and open space for new alliances.
Vijay’s TVK, which has been steadily gaining traction among youth and urban voters, welcomed the Congress decision. Party insiders suggested that discussions on seat-sharing and policy priorities are already underway, though no formal blueprint has been made public.
The DMK, meanwhile, is yet to issue a detailed response, but sources within the party indicated surprise and disappointment over Congress’s decision to exit the alliance. Analysts believe the fallout could trigger further shifts among smaller regional parties that have historically aligned with the DMK-led front.
