Congress Exits DMK Alliance, Forms New Coalition with Vijay’s TVK in Tamil Nadu

In a major political development in Tamil Nadu, the Indian National Congress has reportedly exited the alliance led by Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and formed a new coalition with Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).

Since the announcement of the Tamil Nadu Assembly Election 2026, uncertainty surrounding political alliances had continued across the state. Initially, the Congress national leadership was reportedly hesitant about continuing its alliance with DMK, but later agreed due to pressure from Tamil Nadu Congress leaders.

At the same time, discussions regarding a possible alliance with TVK were also taking place. Tamil Nadu Congress in-charge Girish Chodankar had repeatedly indicated that talks with TVK were ongoing. Reports also suggested that Congress leader Praveen Chakravarthy had met Vijay during the negotiation phase.

Eventually, Congress finalized its alliance with DMK before the election. Despite reports claiming that Rahul Gandhi was not fully supportive of the arrangement, the alliance was confirmed following insistence from Tamil Nadu Congress leaders. Congress was allotted 28 constituencies and one Rajya Sabha seat in the DMK alliance, with Christopher Tilak becoming a Rajya Sabha MP.

However, following TVK’s strong electoral performance and its efforts to form the government, the Congress high command has now reportedly extended support to TVK. Sources state that the alliance is expected to continue in future elections as well, while Congress has placed a condition that TVK should never align with religious extremist or communal political forces.

Earlier, Vijay had announced that parties joining the TVK alliance would also receive representation in the government. Based on this understanding, Congress is now expected to receive one ministerial berth in the proposed TVK-led cabinet. Reports suggest that discussions are underway to appoint a woman leader from Congress as minister.

To finalize the alliance and hold discussions regarding government formation, Girish Chodankar and other Congress leaders reportedly met Vijay at the Panaiyur office and confirmed the coalition. Congress MLAs are also said to have submitted letters of support to Vijay.

If Congress is given representation in the TVK cabinet, it would mark the first coalition government in Tamil Nadu’s political history, with TVK and Vijay playing a central role in this development. It would also pave the way for Congress to re-enter the Tamil Nadu cabinet after nearly 60 years.

With TVK holding 108 seats and requiring 117 for a majority, support from parties such as Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) and Communist Party of India (CPI) is also expected.