Congress Prepares for Upcoming Assembly Elections in Tamil Nadu Amid Alliance Uncertainty
As the Congress party gears up for the upcoming assembly elections in Tamil Nadu, significant meetings are being held to address uncertainties surrounding its long-standing alliance with the DMK. With some leaders advocating for a partnership with actor Vijay's TVK, the party faces pressure to secure more electoral seats. Congress MP Manickam Tagore has highlighted the importance of these discussions, while also attempting to quell rumors of a rift within the coalition. The negotiations for seat-sharing have proven challenging, with Congress seeking a larger share than what the DMK is currently offering. This article delves into the evolving political landscape in Tamil Nadu as Congress navigates its strategy for the elections.
| Jan 16, 2026, 15:51 IST
Congress High Command Initiates Meetings for Tamil Nadu Elections
In preparation for the five assembly elections scheduled for April and May, the Congress High Command has commenced a series of meetings. Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge are set to hold a significant discussion with senior Congress leaders from Tamil Nadu, which may clarify the party's future strategy in the state amidst ongoing uncertainty. Historically, Congress has maintained a coalition with the DMK for nearly two decades. However, some leaders within the state Congress are now advocating for an alliance with actor Vijay's party, TVK.
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Despite the discussions, it remains unclear whether Congress will distance itself from its long-time ally, the DMK. Previously, Congress MP Manickam Tagore emphasized the importance of the upcoming meeting, noting the pressure within the party to secure more tickets and gain a meaningful share of power. He attempted to dismiss speculation regarding any rift within the ruling coalition in the state.
On January 7, Tagore remarked that reports of disagreements over seat-sharing between the DMK and Congress were exaggerated. He stated, 'I don't believe there will be any discussions about changes among the allied parties. Congress has been a long-term partner of the DMK.' He expressed a desire for seat negotiations to conclude swiftly, as any delays could impact the coalition's image. Reflecting on the number of seats contested by Congress in previous assembly elections, Tagore noted fluctuations over the years.
He further elaborated that in 2006, Congress contested 48 seats; in 2011, it was 63; in 2016, the number dropped to 41; and in 2021, it fell to just 25. For the upcoming 2026 elections, he could not specify how many seats would be contested, as he was not present at the discussions. The party president is currently negotiating the number of seats, which will be communicated to the DMK and approved by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge. Emphasizing Tamil Nadu's significance within the opposition framework, Tagore stated that the state remains a crucial pillar of the India alliance.
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Negotiations regarding seat-sharing and power-sharing between Congress and the DMK have also faced challenges. In the 2021 assembly elections, Congress was allocated 25 seats, but this time, the party anticipated a larger share. However, sources indicate that the DMK is only offering 19 seats. In contrast, Congress is demanding more seats, citing previous elections where they secured 41 seats in 2016, 63 in 2011, and 48 in 2006. Reports suggest that Congress aims to secure around 35 seats from the DMK for the 2026 elections. Initially, Congress began negotiations seeking 60-70 seats, hoping to finalize the seat-sharing formula by December 15, but discussions remain unresolved even a month past that deadline.