Rahul Gandhi and C Joseph Vijay interact with staff members and pose for photographs during their visit to a cafe, in Chennai on Saturday
The meeting came against the backdrop of protests in the state demanding the removal of chief election commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Congress has supported the demand, while TVK govt has taken action against the protesters.
They are two young leaders building a long-term relationship,” said another TNCC leader. Referring to the bypoll results, the former chief minister described them as a “victory in defeat” for DMK in the two constituencies, while claiming that TVK had suffered “defeat in its victory”. TNCC chief Manickam Tagore said DMK should introspect on the results instead of displaying arrogance. “If the DMK enjoys such a victory, it is good for us,” he said.
Nearly an hour later, Vijay and Rahul left for a cafe in Palavakkam, apparently at the former’s suggestion. The two exchanged pleasantries with members of the public and posed for photographs at the cafe. “Both had only green tea. Photographs shared by TVK and Congress on social media showed the two leaders interacting warmly. DMK president M K Stalin criticised TVK govt for arresting youths who were protesting for Kumar’s immediate removal.
Chennai: Chief minister C Joseph Vijay on Saturday hosted leader of the opposition Rahul Gandhi and senior Congress leaders for lunch at his Neelankarai home on Saturday, in a show of bonhomie between the alliance partners.