High command unhappy; change in TNCC leadership likely after May 4

Chennai: Speculations of a leadership change in Tamil Nadu Congress have once again gained ground in the wake of reports that the party high command is unhappy with TNCC president K Selvaperunthagai.

A similar talk of change had emerged a year ago, when 18 district presidents complained to party leader Rahul Gandhi seeking action against Selvaperunthagai. He managed to retain his position then, but functionaries say the current situation appears uncertain for him.



Party leaders point to multiple factors behind the dissatisfaction. One is Selvaperunthagai's firm backing of the alliance with DMK, even as a section within the party favoured exploring ties with TVK led by Vijay.

With exit polls suggesting a sizeable vote share for TVK, some leaders now believe the party may have missed an opportunity.

Another trigger was a translation lapse during Rahul Gandhi's public meeting in Ponneri, triggering a slew of online criticism.

Selvaperunthagai was subsequently absent from Rahul's next rally in Kanyakumari, a move that raised eyebrows within the party. "This was the first time a state Congress chief was not present at Rahul Gandhi's election campaign," a senior TNCC leader said.

Selvaperunthagai, who took over from K S Alagiri ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, had himself hinted at possible changes in TNCC post election, but retracted the remark. Recent comments by AICC in-charge Girish Chodankar about structural changes at the grassroots have further fuelled speculation.

Selvaperunthagai refuted the speculations. "There are no such talks among the AICC leadership. They are mere rumours, and I will continue to be the TNCC president even after the election results," Selvaperunthagai told ToI.

Meanwhile, Sathyamurthy Bhavan is abuzz with the names of probable successors for Selvaperunthagai. Sources in TNCC said that MPs Karti Chidambaram, Manickam Tagore and S Jothimani are in the race along with some seniors. "There could be surprises too as Rahul wants fresh energy to be infused,'' said a functionary.
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