Published Feb 18, 2026 | 3:39 PM ⚊ Updated Feb 18, 2026 | 3:44 PM
DMK and Congress
Synopsis: The resolution is being viewed as an attempt to rein in internal dissent and preserve both party unity and alliance discipline. With this firm directive, only official announcements regarding the alliance are expected to be made going forward, while personal opinions are likely to be curtailed.
The Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC) has issued a strong warning to its office-bearers and cadre against making public comments on the DMK–Congress alliance, passing a resolution seeking disciplinary action against anyone who violates party instructions.
The decision was taken at a consultative meeting of district presidents held in Mogappair East, Chennai, where six resolutions were adopted. The fifth resolution, in particular, is being seen as politically significant.
In recent weeks, several senior Congress functionaries, including MPs and MLAs, have reportedly expressed differing views on the DMK–Congress alliance. Despite earlier advisories from the leadership, some leaders are said to have continued making remarks that created confusion within the alliance, causing dissatisfaction at the high command level.
The resolution noted that some MPs, MLAs and AICC office-bearers had already conveyed their views on the alliance privately to the national leadership. Following this, during a recent press interaction, leaders were instructed not to express any opinion on the alliance in public or through the media.
However, the meeting observed that certain individuals continued to make statements that could disturb the understanding between the DMK and the Congress. It warned that such remarks, made in violation of party discipline, could strain ties between alliance partners and adversely affect the Congress party’s interests.
Accordingly, the meeting urged the party leadership to initiate action against anyone who speaks publicly about the DMK–Congress alliance, in line with the All India Congress Committee’s directive.
The resolution is being viewed as an attempt to rein in internal dissent and preserve both party unity and alliance discipline. With this firm directive, only official announcements regarding the alliance are expected to be made going forward, while personal opinions are likely to be curtailed.
On the DMK–Congress alliance, All India Congress Committee (AICC) General Secretary K.C. Venugopal clarified that the partnership is already in place and will continue. “Just as we were together in the Parliamentary elections, we will remain with the DMK in the Assembly elections as well,” he said.
He stressed that the final decision on alliance matters in Tamil Nadu would be announced by the national leadership.
Venugopal reportedly told district presidents that they are the “real pillars” of the Congress party and must ensure strong election work in their respective districts. He stressed the need to strengthen booth committees, enroll new members, and reinforce the party at the grassroots level.
He is also said to have cautioned that after the elections, a review would be conducted. District presidents who fail to perform effectively or remain inactive could face strict action. According to sources, the DMK has indicated that alliance-related discussions may take place after February 22.
Without responding to specific remarks reportedly made by party leaders Mani Shankar Aiyar and Manickam Tagore, Venugopal said no one should speak publicly about the DMK–Congress alliance. “Whatever opinions individuals may have expressed are their personal views and not the party’s official stand,” he said.
When asked whether alliance talks had been held with Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), he declined to comment, stating that he could not respond to “speculations or assumptions.”
(Edited by Sumavarsha, with inputs from Subash Chandra Bose)
