For now, the contest appears to be narrowing between KP Surya Prakash and Arun Bhaskar. Party sources confirm that the new president will most likely be one of these two.
Published Jun 08, 2025 | 10:05 AM ⚊ Updated Jun 08, 2025 | 10:05 AM
Youth Congress president candidates KP Surya Prakash (right) and Arun Bhaskar.
Synopsis: The Tamil Nadu Congress shortlisted three candidates for the post of the Youth Congress president in the state and there is growing speculation that — for the first time — a differently-abled person might be appointed to this position.
The Tamil Nadu Congress shortlisted three candidates for the post of the Youth Congress president in the state. According to party sources, there is growing speculation that — for the first time — a differently-abled person might be appointed to this position.
In addition to the top post, names for general secretaries, vice presidents, and other office bearers were also announced on Saturday, 8 June.
It’s been a year since K Selvaperunthagai took charge as the Tamil Nadu Congress President. During this time, he has overseen a range of organisational changes, from the grassroots level to the state level.
Recently, a group of district-level leaders who opposed Selvaperunthagai travelled to Delhi with complaints, but the effort did not yield significant results. Unfazed, Selvaperunthagai has continued reshaping the party machinery.
One of his major initiatives has been activating gram sabha committees and mobilising over 1.5 lakh party workers on the ground through them. These moves reflect his broader organisational revamp strategy.
Amidst this backdrop, the elections for the Tamil Nadu Youth Congress are currently underway. Complying with the internal processes in the Congress, candidates for leadership positions are shortlisted based on internal voting. Those selected would then have a final round of interview with the central leadership, who make the ultimate decision.
Among the three shortlisted candidates, KP Surya Prakash led with 85,802 votes, Arun Bhaskar came second with 63,656 votes, and P Dinesh secured 43,758 votes.
However, the final decision hinges on the interviews with senior leaders and the candidate who manages to impress them the most will be chosen as the state president of the Youth Congress
Congress insiders revealed that Surya Prakash enjoys the backing of former Youth Congress president Lenin Prasad, and to some extent, Selvaperunthagai himself.
On the other hand, Dinesh is believed to be supported by Virudhunagar MP Manickam Tagore. Notably, Manickam Tagore and Selvaperunthagai are not known to have a close working relationship, adding intrigue to this internal contest.
However, what has stirred interest is the candidacy of Arun Bhaskar, a differently-abled candidate. Despite lacking strong backing from senior leaders, sources close to the Congress high command said he is under serious consideration. Party strategists reportedly see this as an opportunity to bring a fresh change and signal inclusivity.
Arun has been active in the Congress for over eight years. If appointed, he would become not just the first differently-abled person to lead the Youth Congress in Tamil Nadu, but also a symbolic milestone in the party’s history. Sources say the leadership believes such a move could enhance the party’s image and broaden its appeal.
For now, the contest appears to be narrowing between Surya Prakash and Arun Bhaskar. Party sources confirm that the new president will most likely be one of these two.
(Edited by Muhammed Fazil.)
