Congress-TVK tussle over PM face, threat to leave alliance if Vijay is supported instead of Rahul Gandhi

August 31, 2026

Chennai: Differences are emerging between the Congress and the Tamilga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) in Tamil Nadu politics over the Prime Ministerial face. Congress leaders have reportedly warned that if TVK chief Vijay is supported as the Prime Ministerial candidate instead of Rahul Gandhi, the Congress may consider withdrawing from the alliance.

Rahul Gandhi or Vijay? Intensifying tussle over PM face

This controversy has emerged at a time when political parties are formulating their strategies for the 2029 Lok Sabha elections. Congress has consistently projected Rahul Gandhi as its choice for the post of Prime Minister. Meanwhile, there is a growing demand within TVK to promote Vijay as a major political face.

Following Vijay’s entry into politics, TVK has intensified its efforts to establish its own identity in Tamil Nadu politics. Discussions by a section of party supporters that he could be given a larger political role outside the state have increased Congress’s concerns.

Congress Leaders Threaten to Leave Alliance

Congress leaders have reportedly stated that if TVK does not support Rahul Gandhi and puts forward Vijay as the prime ministerial candidate, some Congress leaders may even resign from their ministerial positions.

This tough stance by Congress has raised questions about the prospects of an alliance between the two parties and their future strategy. Failure to reach a consensus on a prime ministerial candidate could impact future seat-sharing and electoral coordination.

Eyeing Vijay’s National Role

Actor-turned-politician Vijay has rapidly established himself in Tamil Nadu politics. With TVK’s expansion and Vijay’s popularity, his supporters see him as a potential leader beyond state politics and at the national level.

Although the differences between the Congress and TVK over the Prime Ministerial candidate are still at an early stage, if both parties persist in their respective positions, this could pose a significant challenge to the alliance.

It will be important to see in the coming months whether the Congress and TVK leaderships can reach a common ground on this issue, or whether the ongoing tussle over the PM candidate further strains the relationship between the two parties.