Chennai, April 15 (NationPress) As the Tamil Nadu Assembly election campaign reaches its critical phase, the ongoing delay in Congress leader Rahul Gandhi revealing his tour schedule has emerged as a significant concern for both the party's state unit and its ally, the DMK.

Although Congress has successfully secured 28 seats following rigorous negotiations, the absence of its senior leadership in Tamil Nadu remains palpable.

With rival parties intensifying their aggressive campaigning efforts, Rahul Gandhi's non-appearance has left many candidates feeling at a disadvantage in crucial constituencies.

There is mounting pressure within the TNCC from grassroots activists and leaders advocating for the involvement of both Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, regarded as the party's most effective crowd-drawers. Their presence is believed to have the potential to invigorate the party's cadre and enhance visibility in this final campaign stretch.

Currently, TNCC President K. Selvaperunthagai and other high-ranking officials are diligently working on statewide outreach to galvanize the party base. Nevertheless, there is a growing clamour within the ranks for national leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi, who are perceived as crucial in attracting votes and enhancing the party's electoral standing.

As per party insiders, Rahul Gandhi has yet to set firm dates for his Tamil Nadu visit. His reluctance appears to be tied to existing internal divisions within the TNCC, leading to apprehensions at the national level.

Simultaneously, Congress leaders have been outspoken in their criticism of the BJP regarding the upcoming delimitation exercise scheduled for April 16-18, reflecting a split focus between organizational matters and political communication.

This delay has also sparked speculation about potential strains in the relationship between Rahul Gandhi and DMK President M.K. Stalin. Although both leaders campaigned in adjacent Puducherry recently, their failure to share the stage has further contributed to the perception of a lack of coordination within the alliance.

Congress officials are particularly anxious as they heavily depend on the DMK's organizational capabilities for grassroots mobilization.

They worry that Rahul Gandhi's absence could undermine their electoral momentum at such a critical juncture.

Girish Chodankar, the Congress in-charge for Tamil Nadu, has indicated that Rahul Gandhi's campaign schedule will be unveiled shortly. However, as the campaign deadline looms, this delay is intensifying anxiety within the Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA), especially with expectations of a fiercely contested election.