CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu Congress Committee president K Selvaperunthagai has strongly condemned DMK Madurai North MLA G Thalapathi for allegedly making derogatory remarks against the party during a public meeting.

The controversy erupted after Thalapathi, in his speech at a public meeting in Subramaniyapuram, Madurai, said, "INDIA alliance would not survive without the DMK.”

Thalapathi also allegedly mocked Congress leaders Manickam Tagore and Karur MP S Jothimani for seeking power sharing despite securing only around 3,000 votes, and reportedly said the DMK should not give Lok Sabha seats to these Congress MPs in the future. He further remarked that "without Chief Minister MK Stalin, Mamatha Banerjee and Akhilesh Yadav's support, the Congress cannot withstand the Centre."

Selvaperunthagai issued a statement on Tuesday, saying such remarks are "highly condemnable" and undermined the spirit of unity and respect that alliance politics demands. He pointed out that a platform meant to remember historic sacrifices should not be misused to insult coalition parties or their leaders.

Highlighting the organisational strength of the Congress in Tamil Nadu, Selvaperunthagai said the party is functioning with renewed vigour across the state. He noted that the formation of 100% booth committees is nearing completion, while nearly 85% of village-level committees have already been constituted. Through organisational restructuring and grassroots initiatives, including village sabha-related activities, the Congress is actively engaging with people on issues of rights, dignity and livelihood, he added.

Accusing Thalapathi of disrespecting both the Congress party and its MPs on a public forum, Selvaperunthagai urged CM Stalin to take immediate and appropriate action against the DMK leader. He stressed that maintaining the dignity and values of alliance politics is essential for democratic functioning and mutual trust among coalition partners.