Congress Joins Tamil Nadu Cabinet After 59 Years, Eyes Rajya Sabha Seat
Two Congress leaders to join Vijay's Tamil Nadu cabinet today, first in 59 years as party eyes Rajya Sabha berth
Image: Hindustan Times
The Congress party is joining the Tamil Nadu government led by Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, marking its first participation in the state's cabinet in 59 years. Two MLAs, Rajesh Kumar and P Viswanathan, will be sworn in as ministers, while Congress seeks a Rajya Sabha seat as part of its alliance with the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).
- 01The Congress party's last participation in the Tamil Nadu cabinet was in 1964.
- 02Rajesh Kumar won in the Killiyoor constituency and P Viswanathan in Melur during the recent assembly elections.
- 03The Congress party has five MLAs in the Tamil Nadu assembly and is negotiating for a Rajya Sabha berth.
- 04The swearing-in ceremony for the new ministers is scheduled for 10 am at Bharathiar Mandapam in Lok Bhavan.
- 05The current government is the first coalition in Tamil Nadu since 1952.
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The Congress party is set to join the Tamil Nadu government led by Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, marking a significant political shift as it enters the cabinet for the first time in 59 years. The induction of MLAs Rajesh Kumar and P Viswanathan as ministers is part of a broader strategy by the Congress to strengthen its political influence in the state. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge approved their induction, which reflects the party's desire to regain relevance in Tamil Nadu politics after years of absence. The Congress has five MLAs in the assembly and is currently negotiating for a Rajya Sabha seat, following the retirement of CV Shanmugam, a member of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK). The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for 10 am at Bharathiar Mandapam in Lok Bhavan. This coalition government, which includes alliances with the Left parties and the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), represents a historic moment for Tamil Nadu, being the first coalition since 1952. Political analysts suggest that this alliance could reshape the state's political landscape as Congress aims to establish a stronger foothold.
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The inclusion of Congress in the Tamil Nadu cabinet could lead to changes in governance and policy-making, potentially benefiting various community interests.
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