Congress leader Karti Chidambaram on Tuesday rejected the DMK's accusation of 'backstabbing' over its decision to support Vijay in forming a government in Tamil Nadu, calling the criticism 'unfair.' The remarks come after the DMK terminated its 2004-era alliance with Congress following the party's post-poll decision to back Vijay, who emerged as a key player in the hung assembly.

Chidambaram stated in an interview with NDTV that the election results reflected a public mandate for change and for Vijay to lead a coalition government. 'The people have clearly voted for a new formation... they have told Vijay to go and seek the aid and assistance of other parties. That's why he's reaching out to us, and we have now offered our support,' he said. The Congress won five of the 28 seats it contested under the DMK alliance, a steep drop from 18 in 2021.

Prior to the election, Congress had opted to maintain its alliance with the DMK despite internal debate, but the outcome prompted a reassessment. Chidambaram noted the party leadership allowed state leaders autonomy in post-poll decisions. He added that supporting Vijay comes with responsibilities, including participation in government, signaling expectations for cabinet positions.

The DMK had previously refused to grant Congress power-sharing arrangements, with Chief Minister M.K. Stalin ruling out any accommodation ahead of the polls. With no party securing a majority, coalition negotiations are ongoing. The court will resume hearing on Tuesday.