Congress MP S Jothimani has raised serious concerns over what she described as a lack of transparency in the party’s constituency selection process for the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.
In a strongly worded statement, the Karur MP accused the state leadership of conducting seat-sharing discussions within the DMK-led alliance in a “highly secretive manner,” claiming that the interests of the party have been “completely compromised.”
Jothimani said her suggestion to adopt a transparent and consultative approach while finalising constituencies was ignored. She emphasised that decisions should have been made after detailed discussions involving party members, rather than behind closed doors.
The MP also expressed disappointment over the treatment of grassroots workers, stating that years of effort by loyal Congress cadres were being overlooked. According to her, individuals with little contribution to the party’s growth in Tamil Nadu were being given undue importance in the selection process.
Her remarks come at a crucial time as major political players, including the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam and All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, are finalising strategies for the April 23 Assembly elections. The political landscape is also witnessing increased competition with the emergence of new players like Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam.
Warning of serious consequences, Jothimani said that if the current “sales-based” approach to candidate selection continues, it could significantly harm the Congress party’s prospects in the state. She added that she would present a more detailed response once the official list of candidates and constituencies is released.