No Rift in India Alliance, Says Congress Leader Selvapernathugai; Slams AIADMK, Calls BJP an ‘Octopus’

Chennai: Political activity is heating up in Tamil Nadu ahead of the upcoming assembly elections. Congress leader Selvapernathugai dismissed speculation about differences within the India Alliance, asserting that coalition partners are united and ongoing discussions are focused on coordination.

‘Rumors of Discord Are Baseless’
Speaking at the inauguration of training sessions for new district leaders of the Tamil Nadu Congress, Selvapernathugai said that rumors of conflict within the alliance are “baseless.” He emphasized that the Congress leadership has full authority to engage in discussions and coordinate with other coalition partners. “There is no tension within the alliance,” he added, noting that members are actively communicating and that Congress is fully involved in decision-making processes with its partners.

Attack on AIADMK and Palaniswami
Turning his attention to the opposition, Selvapernathugai sharply criticized AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami, advising him to focus on his party’s stability rather than commenting on the Congress-DMK alliance. He warned that Palaniswami must safeguard his party, lest it be “swallowed” by the BJP, which he described as an octopus.

BJP Accused of Weakening Regional Parties
Selvapernathugai accused the BJP of systematically weakening regional parties across the country, likening its political strategy to an octopus that engulfs other parties. According to him, AIADMK is the next target, with nearly three-fourths of the party already affected. He stressed that protecting Palaniswami is of paramount importance.

Alliance Partners Show Unity
His statement comes as alliance partners attempt to project unity. Leaders of the India Bloc were recently seen together at the inauguration of a Karl Marx statue—a move widely regarded as a symbol of ongoing cooperation. Another joint gathering of alliance parties is expected on February 18, aimed at protesting the BJP-led central government and strengthening collective opposition to its policies.

Cautious on Expanding the Alliance
On questions about including Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) in the alliance, Selvapernathugai said that the decision rests with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, who heads the state coalition. He clarified that Congress will not interfere in the internal matters of other parties and will respect the Chief Minister’s leadership in decisions regarding alliance expansion.