Chennai: A political storm has erupted in Tamil Nadu after Governor Rajendra Arlekar declined to immediately invite actor-turned-politician Vijay to form the government despite his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, emerging as the single largest party in the Assembly elections. The development triggered massive criticism on social media, with several users mocking the Governor’s stand and accusing the BJP of influencing the decision from behind the scenes.
TVK won 108 seats in the 234-member Assembly, falling short of the majority mark of 118 by just 10 seats. Though the Congress reportedly extended support after breaking away from the DMK alliance, Vijay still remains six MLAs short of the numbers required to stake a claim to power. The Governor reportedly asked TVK leaders to return with letters of support from 118 legislators before a swearing-in ceremony could be scheduled.
The postponement of Vijay’s expected swearing-in ceremony intensified the political drama in the state. Netizens alleged that the Governor’s refusal was politically motivated and aimed at preventing TVK from assuming office.
“BJP has one seat in Tamil Nadu. Governor should ask BJP to form government and give them time for next 5 years to get the support of another 117 MLAs,” an X user wrote.
The BJP, however, denied any role in the controversy. Party spokesperson Narayanan Thirupathy insisted that government formation was a constitutional process and accused rivals of spreading propaganda.
Actor and Rajya Sabha MP Kamal Haasan also attacked the Governor’s move, arguing that the majority should be tested on the Assembly floor and not inside Raj Bhavan. Calling the situation a humiliation for the state and a stain on democracy, Kamal said the Governor’s action had effectively prevented 233 elected MLAs from taking oath despite the people delivering a clear verdict.