Survey Shows Vijay Trails Rahul Gandhi, Sparking Clash in Tamil Nadu Alliance

Chennai, August 30 — A televised opinion poll has placed Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay at a modest nine percent in the race for the country’s top post, lagging behind Congress stalwart Rahul Gandhi. The data, released after the DMK’s overt campaign to market Vijay as a prime‑ministerial hopeful, has ignited fresh friction within the Tamil Nadu alliance.

Congress officials allege that the DMK‑driven posters and video content, now visible on streets and social platforms, risk confusing voters about the coalition’s national agenda. They argue that pushing Vijay’s name prematurely may undermine the alliance’s unified front against the incumbent government.

The dispute surfaced when DMK legislators praised Vijay repeatedly during assembly sessions, prompting supporters to paste campaign material outside the legislature and in other Indian metros. The media coverage highlighted the coalition’s dual narrative – the DMK championing Vijay while Congress continues to project Rahul as its prime‑ministerial prospect.

Senior Congress members have warned that the internal discord could jeopardise the alliance’s electoral strategy, especially in the crucial run‑up to the general elections. They stress the need for a coordinated approach that respects both regional popularity and national leadership considerations.