Rahul Gandhi’s Absence Sparks Fresh Tensions Within Opposition Alliance

CHENNAI: The absence of Rahul Gandhi from the campaign trail in Tamil Nadu has triggered speculation about possible unease within the Congress–DMK alliance, especially as polling activity intensifies in key southern states.

In contrast, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made multiple visits to Tamil Nadu over the past two months, actively campaigning for BJP led NDA candidates. He is also scheduled to return on April 15 to address voters in Nagercoil.

Political observers note that Rahul Gandhi’s absence stands in sharp contrast to the 2021 Assembly elections, when he launched an early and visible campaign in the state with a three day visit in January. This time, however, Congress leaders indicate that his schedule is still being finalized, with a likely visit planned after the first phase of polling in Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry.

Rahul Gandhi recently campaigned in Puducherry on the final day of outreach, where he sought support for Congress and alliance candidates but notably avoided mentioning M. K. Stalin or the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam. Interestingly, Stalin was also present in Puducherry the same day, but both leaders held separate events, carefully scheduled to avoid overlap.

This lack of coordination has added fuel to speculation of friction between the two allies, reportedly stemming from disagreements during seat-sharing negotiations. While DMK leaders maintain that scheduling constraints prevented a joint appearance, they assert that collaborative campaigning will take place soon.

Senior Congress sources suggest that Rahul Gandhi is expected to begin his Tamil Nadu campaign after April 10, which could help ease concerns and reinforce alliance unity ahead of crucial polling dates.