Dateline: Chennai, May 7: Political uncertainty continues in Tamil Nadu as actor-turned-politician Vijay and his party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) remain short of the majority needed to form the next government in the state.
TVK emerged as the single-largest party in the recently concluded Assembly elections by winning 108 seats in the 234-member Assembly. However, the party still requires support from additional MLAs to cross the majority mark of 118.
Vijay met Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar and formally staked claim to form the government. However, the Governor reportedly informed TVK that documentary proof of majority support would be required before any invitation to form the government could be issued.
The Congress party has already extended support to TVK, increasing the alliance tally to 113 seats. Despite this, the coalition still remains short of the required numbers.
Smaller parties including VCK, Left parties and others are currently holding internal discussions regarding possible support to TVK. Meanwhile, AIADMK has publicly stated that it will not support Vijay’s party under any circumstances.
The political developments have triggered intense negotiations and speculation over coalition possibilities in Tamil Nadu, a state traditionally dominated by the DMK and AIADMK.
Officials indicated that the swearing-in ceremony, initially expected this week, may now be delayed until the majority issue is resolved.
The situation remains fluid, with all eyes now on smaller regional parties and the Governor’s next decision regarding government formation in Tamil Nadu.