COIMBATORE: The All India Congress Committee’s professionals wing chairman, Praveen Chakravarty, on Wednesday said TVK leader Vijay has evolved into a formidable political force and people now see him as a politician rather than an actor.
Speaking to the media in Coimbatore, the Congress leader stated there is no doubt that people attended Vijay’s rallies with great enthusiasm.
“While questions have been raised whether it will translate into votes, it is evident that people now view Vijay not as an actor but as a politician. His transformation into a political force is undeniable,” he said.
Asked about the buzz around his meeting with Vijay, the Congress leader responded, “Can’t two public personalities meet? While I belong to the Congress, I have other roles and identities as well. There was nothing wrong in meeting with Vijay. I meet several people in Delhi, but it becomes an issue when such meetings happen in Tamil Nadu.”
Reiterating his demand for more seats and a share of power in Tamil Nadu, Chakravarty said these were the aspirations of the cadres to strengthen the Congress, which has been out of power for 60 years in Tamil Nadu. “Their demand stems from concern for the party’s future and welfare,” he said.
On differing views expressed by party state president Selvaperunthagai, Chakravarty said some MPs and MLAs may have their own compulsions.
Citing an English proverb, ‘Don’t bite the hand that feeds you’, he said leaders may face constraints arising due to the responsibilities they carry or even legal cases.
“However, there has been no difference of opinion when it comes to strengthening the party for its future and welfare,” he said.
“Ours is a democratic party, and cadres are free to raise demands. However, the final decision will be made only by the party’s leadership,” he said.