Chennai: Political developments in Tamil Nadu gathered pace on Wednesday as actor-turned-politician Vijay accelerated efforts to form a government following a strong electoral debut by his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). In a clear sign of intense post-election maneuvering, dozens of newly elected TVK legislators were relocated to a high-end resort in Mamallapuram, a move often associated with safeguarding party unity during crucial negotiations.
Party insiders indicated that more than 50 MLAs had already assembled at the resort, with additional members expected to join. The relocation comes shortly after a strategy session led by Vijay, as the party works to consolidate the numbers required to cross the majority threshold in the 234-member Assembly. Security has been tightened in and around the premises, with a significant police presence deployed to monitor the situation.
TVK emerged as the single largest party in the recent Assembly elections, securing 108 seats—just shy of the 118 needed for a majority. With the numbers falling short, the party has initiated discussions with smaller parties and independent legislators to bridge the gap.
In a key political development, the Indian National Congress has stepped in to support TVK. The decision followed a late-night virtual meeting of the Tamil Nadu Congress leadership under state president K Selvaperunthagai. Senior leader K. C. Venugopal confirmed that Vijay had formally sought the party’s backing and that the Central leadership had empowered the state unit to make a final call.
Sources suggest the Congress views the election outcome as a mandate for a secular administration and is keen to prevent the Bharatiya Janata Party and its allies from gaining influence in the state. The Congress currently holds five seats in the Assembly.
Other parties that could play a pivotal role include the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) with four seats, as well as the Communist Party of India and Communist Party of India (Marxist), which have two seats each. The Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) is also seen as a potential ally.
This emerging alignment marks a notable shift in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape, particularly since the Congress had contested the elections as part of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK)-led alliance. The decision to support Vijay may also ripple beyond the state, influencing broader opposition dynamics at the national level.
