Vijay's Bid to Form Tamil Nadu Government Fails After Key Allies Withdraw Support

Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) leader Vijay failed Friday to secure enough legislative support to form the Tamil Nadu government, after the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK), and Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) pulled back from potential alliances. Despite briefly believing he had 121 MLAs, including support from the Congress, Left parties, and VCK, Vijay fell short when key partners reversed course, leaving TVK with only 113 confirmed seats—five short of the 118 needed for a majority.

The Governor, RV Arlekar, repeatedly asked Vijay to present letters of support, refusing to allow a floor test without documented proof of majority. Earlier in the week, TVK appeared to be gaining ground after the Left parties (CPI and CPM) agreed to support from within, and VCK initially signaled backing. However, VCK later demanded a deputy chief minister post for its leader Thol Thirumavalavan, a condition not met, leading to its withdrawal. The IUML and AMMK, holding three seats between them, also declined to join.

The collapse of negotiations follows a fast-moving political drama over three days, during which TVK believed it could assemble a coalition. Vijay met Governor Arlekar multiple times, insisting he could prove majority in the House, but was rebuffed without written support. With the Tamil Nadu Assembly term set to expire on May 10, time has run out for TVK to stave off a fresh election, which the Governor may now convene if no party demonstrates majority.

The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), led by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, has not staked a claim, having lost the election. The Congress, with five MLAs, offered support to TVK but could not bridge the gap. The Left parties formally backed TVK but their four seats were insufficient without VCK, IUML, and AMMK.

The Tamil Nadu Governor is expected to make an official announcement by Sunday on whether a new government will be formed or fresh elections called. No further meetings with Vijay or coalition representatives are scheduled.