Congress, CPI, and CPM had already backed the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), increasing the Vijay-led party's seat count from 107 to 116 by Friday night. With the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) and the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) joining in, the tally rose to 120.
Support Letters Handed Over
TVK functionary Aadhav Arjuna received VCK's support letter from party leader Thol Thirumavalavan on Saturday evening, following a day of uncertainty. IUML national president Khader Mohideen handed over his party's letter to TVK's K A Sengottaiyan and Arunraj.
Positive Response from DMK
Thirumavalavan stated that the decision was conveyed to DMK chief M K Stalin, who responded positively. TVK had earlier made two unsuccessful attempts to secure IUML's support, with the party initially refusing due to its long-standing ties with the DMK. A final push on Saturday brought IUML on board.
IUML's Rationale
The IUML's high-level committee resolved that helping establish a democratic government is a vital democratic duty to prevent political instability in the state. The party stated: "The expectations of the general public, and particularly the Muslim community, are for the establishment of a democratic government. This decision is taken to preserve the traditions of Tamil Nadu and avoid the unwelcome prospect of President's Rule." IUML emphasized that it has been a long-standing partner of the DMK and would continue its alliance with the DMK-headed bloc.
