Congress leader Praveen Chakravarty, who serves as the Chairman of the All India Professionals’ Congress and is known to be close to Rahul Gandhi, has described actor-turned-politician Vijay as an increasingly influential and powerful presence in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape. His comments come at a time when there is intense speculation about possible political realignments ahead of the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.
Responding to questions about his reported meeting with Vijay, Chakravarty confirmed that the interaction had taken place but declined to share further details. He dismissed any controversy around the meeting, remarking that there was nothing unusual about two individuals meeting each other. He noted that Vijay’s public meetings were drawing large crowds and said that many people were beginning to view him not merely as a film star, but as a serious political leader. According to Chakravarty, there is little doubt that Vijay has emerged as a force in state politics, though he added that it remains to be seen whether the enthusiasm surrounding him will eventually translate into electoral success.
These remarks have gained significance in the backdrop of statements by Vijay’s party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), which recently described the Congress as a “natural ally.” That comment has fuelled speculation that the Congress could be open to exploring a broader political understanding or alliance involving Vijay ahead of the state elections.
Chakravarty also made it clear that the Congress is no longer content with playing a marginal role in Tamil Nadu politics. He said that party workers and leaders want a meaningful share in governance, stressing that the Congress seeks a stake in government, power, and decision-making in the state. He acknowledged that the party’s position in Tamil Nadu has steadily weakened over the past six decades, and argued that the present moment should be used to rebuild and strengthen the organisation.
While conceding that some Members of the Legislative Assembly and Members of Parliament may operate under certain political constraints, he suggested that such considerations should not dictate the party’s long-term strategy. He underlined that the Congress leadership at the national level was fully aware of what steps were required to revive the party’s influence in Tamil Nadu.
On the question of alliances, Chakravarty was categorical that the final decision would rest solely with the Congress high command. Referring to remarks made by Karthi Chidambaram, he said that individual leaders were free to offer opinions or suggestions, but decisions on alliances and political strategy would be taken only by the party’s top leadership.
Chakravarty’s comments have also been viewed in the context of reports about his off-the-record interaction with Vijay, followed by a social media post in which he compared Tamil Nadu’s debt levels with those of Uttar Pradesh. Together, these developments have triggered fresh speculation that the Congress may be reassessing its political approach in the state, including its long-standing alliance with the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK).
Tamil Nadu, which has a 234-member Legislative Assembly, is expected to go to the polls around April or May this year, and evolving political equations are likely to play a crucial role in shaping the contest.
