The Congress party has extended its support to actor-politician Vijay-led Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) to form the next government in Tamil Nadu, following a fractured mandate in the 2026 assembly elections. The announcement came after a meeting between Congress leaders and TVK representatives in New Delhi on Wednesday.
Background of the Political Development
The 2026 Tamil Nadu assembly elections resulted in a hung assembly, with no single party securing a clear majority. The TVK emerged as the single largest party with 98 seats, followed by the DMK with 85 seats and the AIADMK with 72 seats. The Congress, which contested in alliance with the DMK, won 12 seats. However, the DMK's performance fell short of expectations, leading to a political deadlock.
Congress Decision to Support TVK
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge stated that the party decided to support TVK after careful consideration of the political situation in Tamil Nadu. "We believe that Vijay's leadership and his party's vision align with our secular and progressive values. To ensure a stable government in Tamil Nadu, we have decided to extend our support to the TVK," Kharge said in a press conference.
The Congress's support gives TVK a total of 110 seats in the 234-member assembly, still short of the 118 majority mark. The party is now in talks with other smaller parties and independents to form a coalition government.
Reactions from Political Parties
The DMK expressed disappointment over the Congress's decision, accusing the party of betraying the alliance. DMK president M.K. Stalin said, "The Congress has chosen to align with an actor-turned-politician over a longstanding alliance. This is a betrayal of the people's mandate." On the other hand, the AIADMK welcomed the development, stating that it reflects the changing political dynamics in the state.
Vijay thanked the Congress for its support and called for unity among like-minded parties to form a stable government. "We are committed to fulfilling the aspirations of the people of Tamil Nadu. With the Congress's support, we will work towards forming a government that prioritizes development and social justice," Vijay said in a statement.
Political Implications
This development marks a significant shift in Tamil Nadu's political landscape, as it brings together a regional party led by a popular actor and a national party. Political analysts believe that this alliance could reshape the state's politics, especially if TVK manages to form a government with the support of other parties. The coming days will see intense negotiations as TVK seeks to cobble together a majority.
The Congress's decision has also sparked debate within the party, with some members questioning the move to support a relatively new political entity. However, the party leadership has defended the decision, citing the need to counter the BJP's influence in the state.
Next Steps
Governor R.N. Ravi has invited TVK to stake claim to form the government, giving the party time to prove its majority on the floor of the assembly. TVK is expected to approach other parties, including the MDMK, VCK, and some independents, to secure the required numbers. The political scenario remains fluid, with all eyes on Chennai as the state prepares for a new government.
