Signalling its intent to end all speculation and present a united front ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, the Congress has set up a high-level committee to open formal seat-sharing discussions with its key ally, the DMK. The move comes amid persistent political chatter over the stability of the INDIA bloc in the State and questions surrounding the Congress' long-term commitment to the Dravidian party.

The newly formed five-member panel consists of AICC Tamil Nadu and Puducherry in-charge Girish Chodankar, national leaders Suraj Hegde and Nivedith Alva, TNCC president K. Selvaperunthagai, and Congress Legislature Party leader S. Rajeshkumar. Party insiders said the list was finalised after internal consultations, with an effort to balance organisational experience and political negotiation skills.

According to sources, the Congress leadership is preparing to send a formal communication to DMK president and Chief Minister M.K. Stalin to initiate structured talks. While the DMK has not offered any public reaction yet, the Congress move is being interpreted as a direct attempt to address concerns reportedly flagged by the ruling party over unending rumours of a possible Congress–TVK understanding.

A senior TNCC leader said the DMK had privately conveyed that ongoing speculation about the alliance framework was creating unwanted uncertainty just when election groundwork was intensifying. He noted that narratives hinting at Congress exploring ties with other parties—particularly TVK, which has been drawing attention since its formation—risked diluting the INDIA bloc’s messaging.

“The DMK wanted clarity. They felt the talk of a potential Congress–TVK partnership was causing avoidable confusion among cadres on both sides. This committee is a step towards reinforcing trust and ensuring that the alliance remains intact and focused,” the functionary said.

Sources added that the Congress panel would approach the talks with an open brief, covering all aspects of the alliance—from seat distribution to the party’s request for a meaningful role in any future coalition arrangement. Leaders emphasised that the Congress is committed to resolving issues respectfully and positioning itself responsibly within the DMK-led alliance.