Tamil Nadu Faces Government Formation Deadlock After TVK's Majority Claim Falls Short

Tamil Nadu's government formation process stalled on Thursday after actor-politician Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) failed to demonstrate a clear majority, submitting letters showing support from only 116 of 232 MLAs—short of the 118 required—even as the Congress pushed to frame the arrangement as a coalition. Political commentator S Gurumurthy told NDTV the move was a procedural error, saying TVK should have claimed status as the single largest party to gain automatic consideration from the Governor.

According to Gurumurthy, advisors initially recommended TVK assert it was the single largest party, but later shifted to a coalition format after Congress and other allies insisted on being formally included. This forced the Governor to treat it as a post-poll alliance requiring majority proof, prompting him to ask Vijay for additional letters demonstrating support from 118 MLAs. The inclusion of Congress's letter, Gurumurthy said, changed the technical nature of the claim and placed the Governor in a difficult position.

Vijay's camp cited support from 120 individuals in a covering letter, but the annexed documents listed only 116 MLAs, creating a tie in the assembly. The IUML has not submitted a letter despite public statements of support, while reports suggest internal divisions. Gurumurthy noted that some smaller parties remain undecided, with their allegiance potentially influenced by political bargaining.

The Governor has not rejected TVK's claim but has requested updated proof of majority. With no swearing-in scheduled, the political situation remains fluid. Gurumurthy predicted the deadlock could clear by May 10, depending on whether any defectors emerge from the DMK camp or additional support letters are submitted.