The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has told the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) it must sever ties with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) before any discussions on a post-poll alliance, sources said Friday. The demand comes as both parties consider an unprecedented partnership to block Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), led by actor Vijay, from forming the government after winning 108 seats in the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections—10 short of a majority.

The DMK has proposed extending external support to a potential AIADMK-led arrangement, provided smaller allies like the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) are given ministerial positions. Sources indicate the VCK, which initially appeared open to supporting Vijay, has now realigned with the DMK and is working to bring the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and the Communist Party of India on board. The Congress, which won five seats, has already committed support to TVK.

However, the Left parties remain divided, with senior leaders convening later Friday to decide their stance; some CPI(M) and CPI members favour backing Vijay's coalition. The AIADMK has not publicly responded to the DMK's conditions, while the BJP's Tamil Nadu unit said the governor would follow constitutional procedure once a claim to form government is made.

The political manoeuvring follows a standoff between Governor R.V. Arlekar and the TVK, raising questions about the sequence of government formation. The governor has not invited any party to form the administration, pending verification of support.

The Tamil Nadu Assembly will convene for the swearing-in ceremony next week, pending submission of formal claims and verification of majority support.