Congress Ends 22-Year Alliance with DMK, Backs Vijay for Tamil Nadu Government

In a dramatic political shift ahead of government formation in Tamil Nadu, the Indian National Congress has ended its 22-year-long alliance with the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam and extended full support to actor-turned-politician Vijay's party, Tamizhaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).

The move marks one of the most significant political breakups in Tamil Nadu in recent decades, signalling a complete reset of alliances in the state.

The alliance between the Congress and the DMK was forged in the wake of the 1969 Congress split, shifting from historical rivalry to a strategic partnership when the DMK supported Indira Gandhi's minority government. This cooperation culminated in a formal electoral pact for the 1971 elections, where the DMK-led Progressive Front secured a landslide victory with 205 Assembly seats; notably, Congress (R) opted out of the state assembly race entirely to focus on-and win-nine Lok Sabha seats. Though the relationship fluctuated over subsequent decades, including a brief hiatus between 2013 and 2016, it stabilised into a cornerstone of Tamil Nadu politics that remains an enduring force through the 2026 elections.

A 22-Year Partnership Comes to an End

After over two decades of political collaboration, the Congress has formally parted ways with the DMK, a partnership that played a crucial role in multiple electoral battles at both the state and national levels.

The decision underscores a shift in strategy, with Congress now aligning itself with Vijay's emerging political force. Party leaders said the alliance with TVK is not limited to forming the government but is intended to continue for future elections, including local body polls, Lok Sabha, and Rajya Sabha contests.

Why Congress Chose Vijay

According to Congress leadership, the move reflects the mandate delivered by voters, particularly the youth, who have backed a "secular, progressive and welfarist" government under Vijay's leadership.

Senior party leader Girish Chodankar said supporting TVK is aligned with the people's verdict and constitutional values. The party invoked the legacy of K. Kamaraj, Periyar E. V. Ramasamy, and B. R. Ambedkar to underline its ideological positioning.

Conditional Support, BJP a Red Line

The Congress made it clear that its support to TVK comes with a key condition: the party must not align with the Bharatiya Janata Party or any forces it considers "communal."

This comes amid reports that TVK had explored talks with the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), adding a layer of complexity to the evolving political landscape.

Impact on INDIA Bloc

Despite the split with DMK, Congress leaders suggested both parties could still remain part of the INDIA bloc at the national level. However, the development raises questions about unity within the opposition alliance as regional dynamics continue to shift.

Strains Behind the Breakup

The Congress-DMK relationship had shown signs of strain in recent months. Notably, Rahul Gandhi and DMK chief M. K. Stalin did not share the stage during the election campaign, hinting at underlying tensions.

There were also internal differences within Congress. While some leaders were open to engaging with Vijay earlier, the leadership under Mallikarjun Kharge had initially chosen to stay with the DMK before reversing course after the results.

What This Means Going Forward

For Vijay and TVK, Congress support provides crucial backing to form the government and strengthens the party's political standing. For Congress, the move represents both a risk and an opportunity-breaking away from a 22-year-old ally to align with a new political force.

As Tamil Nadu enters a new political phase, the long-term impact of this realignment-both in the state and within the national opposition framework-remains to be seen.