Vaiko Backs Rahul Gandhi as INDIA Bloc's 2029 PM Pick, Rules Out Vijay

TIRUNELVELI — MDMK general secretary Vaiko on Monday ruled out any possibility of Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) chief and Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay being projected as the prime ministerial candidate of the INDIA bloc for the 2029 Lok Sabha elections, asserting that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi remains the alliance's definitive choice.

Speaking to mediapersons in Tirunelveli, Vaiko stated that there is no alternative to Rahul Gandhi for the leadership role within the bloc. He added that, to his knowledge, Vijay himself did not appear to harbour any ambition for the prime minister's office.

Vaiko's statements follow recent attempts by TVK functionaries and ministers to position Vijay as a prime ministerial candidate for the 2029 general elections. The development has triggered friction with Congress leaders, who provided unconditional support to the TVK government to enable it to form the administration.

At a Congress meeting near Marthandam in Kanyakumari district, Tourism Minister Rajesh Kumar warned that he and Higher Education Minister Viswanathan would step down from the TVK government if the party refused to accept Rahul Gandhi as the PM candidate. Viswanathan echoed similar views during a speech in Tiruchy, confirming his willingness to resign.

Vaiko urged Vijay to instruct his ministers and party members to refrain from issuing statements that promote him for the prime ministerial post, signalling that alliance partners would firmly resist such moves.

Despite the friction over the national leadership question, Vaiko gave the Vijay-led government an 80 per cent rating for its first 100 days in office. He lauded the administration's measures against corruption, calling the anti-corruption drive a "Himalayan task" and praising the government's efforts.

Vaiko also supported the decision to broadcast Assembly proceedings live, noting that the telecast would bolster democratic practices and ensure legislators across party lines remain mindful of their conduct in the House.

Additionally, Vaiko voiced strong disapproval over the downgrading of the Z+ security cover for former chief minister and DMK president M.K. Stalin, calling for the protection to be reinstated immediately.