Tamil Nadu politics entered a dramatic new phase on May 4 as Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) emerged as the single-largest party in the assembly elections, disrupting the decades-long dominance of the DMK and AIADMK. However, despite the massive breakthrough, TVK failed to cross the majority mark in the 234-member assembly, triggering intense political negotiations, alliance shifts, accusations, resort politics, and a battle over government formation.
TVK's Landmark Victory but Short of Majority
Vijay's TVK emerged as the single-largest party after winning 108 seats in the 234-member assembly. The DMK secured 59 seats, while the AIADMK won 47. This result shattered the traditional two-party system in Tamil Nadu, where power has alternated between the DMK and AIADMK for decades. However, TVK remained 10 seats short of the majority mark of 118. The situation became more complicated because Vijay is expected to vacate one of the two seats he won, reducing TVK's effective strength from 108 to 107.
Governor's Cautious Stance
Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar invited Vijay to Lok Bhavan but did not immediately ask him to form the government. According to ANI sources, the governor sought clarity on the "magic number" required for government formation and asked Vijay to furnish details of legislators backing TVK's claim to form the government. This cautious approach drew criticism from several political leaders who argued that Vijay should have been allowed to prove his majority through a floor test in the assembly.
Congress Breaks with DMK, Supports TVK
In a significant political move, the Congress party extended support to TVK with its five MLAs, taking the alliance tally to 113. This decision became politically significant because Congress backed Vijay instead of standing with its long-time ally DMK, triggering tensions within the Secular Progressive Alliance. The DMK reportedly called Congress a "backstabber" for its sudden shift in allegiance.
TVK's Coalition Efforts
TVK intensified efforts to secure support from smaller parties including PMK, Left parties, CPM, and VCK. Even after Congress support, TVK's effective tally was expected to stand at 112 after Vijay vacates one seat, still five short of the majority mark of 118. The party continued negotiations to bridge the gap and form a stable government.
Accusations of Governor's Bias
Several leaders, including VCK leader Thol Thirumavalavan and leaders from Left parties, accused Governor Arlekar of acting under pressure from the BJP-led Union government to delay or complicate the constitutional process. They argued that the governor should have invited the single-largest party to form the government and allowed a floor test to prove its majority.
DMK and AIADMK in Unlikely Talks
The rise of TVK led to unexpected communication between arch-rivals DMK and AIADMK. Chief Minister MK Stalin reportedly informed DMK MLAs that the AIADMK had reached out seeking support to form the government and prevent Vijay from becoming chief minister. AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami was also expected to seek an appointment with the governor amid the political uncertainty.
AIADMK Internal Divisions
TVK reportedly opened talks with a section of AIADMK MLAs regarding a possible power-sharing arrangement. According to ANI sources, 28 AIADMK legislators supporting senior leader CV Shanmugam were shifted to a private resort in Puducherry, fueling speculation that sections within the AIADMK were considering support for TVK. Sources claimed discussions included a possible deputy chief minister's post and key ministerial portfolios for CV Shanmugam. However, the AIADMK itself appeared divided, with party general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami reportedly not agreeing to support TVK.
Resort Politics Intensifies
TVK moved its own MLAs to a luxury resort in Mamallapuram, where more than 50 legislators stayed under heavy police security as the party continued its post-election strategy discussions. This resort politics underscored the high stakes and uncertainty surrounding government formation.
Conclusion
The Tamil Nadu post-poll drama remains fluid, with TVK striving to reach the majority mark through alliances and defections, while DMK and AIADMK explore their options to retain power or play kingmaker. The coming days will determine whether Vijay can form the government or if the traditional parties will find a way to keep him out of power.
