Chennai: Tamil superstar-turned-politician Vijay may have delivered one of the biggest political shocks in Tamil Nadu’s history, but the road to the Chief Minister’s chair is still far from clear.
His party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), emerged as the single largest force in the Assembly elections, yet it remains short of the crucial majority mark needed to form a stable government.
The political suspense deepened after Vijay held back-to-back meetings with Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar to stake claim to form the government. However, the Governor reportedly insisted that TVK must show support from at least 118 MLAs before any invitation to form the government can be considered.
TVK has won 108 seats in the 234-member Assembly. Even after Congress extended support, the numbers are still falling short, forcing Vijay’s camp to explore support from smaller parties and independents. Political circles in Chennai are buzzing with speculation over possible post-poll alliances and last-minute negotiations.
Adding more drama to the unfolding situation, AIADMK reportedly shifted several of its MLAs to Puducherry amid fears of political poaching. Meanwhile, DMK leaders have stated they do not want a constitutional crisis in the state, though they continue to insist that the majority must be proven on the Assembly floor.
The developments have now turned the Governor’s office into the centre of Tamil Nadu politics. Constitutional experts point out that in a hung Assembly, the Governor has the authority to seek proof of majority, order a floor test, or even recommend President’s Rule if no party can demonstrate stable numbers.
For now, Vijay’s supporters are celebrating a historic electoral rise, but the final chapter of this political thriller is yet to be written.