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Actor-politician Vijay is set to become the next Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu after securing the support required to cross the majority mark in the 234-member Assembly.
Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam has now reached the required figure of 118 MLAs with the backing of the Congress, CPI, CPM, and the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi.
According to the latest numbers, TVK has 107 MLAs, while Congress has extended support with five MLAs. The CPI, CPM, and VCK, which hold two seats each, have also declared support, taking the total to 118.
Vijay is scheduled to meet Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar at 6 pm to submit documents proving majority support and formally stake a claim to form the government. A joint press conference by the supporting parties is expected before the meeting.
Earlier on Thursday, Vijay had submitted letters of support from 112 MLAs. However, the Governor declined to invite him to form the government, stating that formal support from 118 MLAs had not yet been presented.
Following that meeting, TVK intensified talks with smaller parties to secure the remaining support needed for a majority.
TVK leader Kamaraj thanked the CPI, CPM, and VCK for what he described as respecting the people’s mandate. Celebrations have also begun outside the party headquarters in Chennai.
CPM General Secretary M.A. Baby said in Delhi that the party’s Tamil Nadu leadership had been authorised to take an appropriate decision regarding support to Vijay.
Reports also suggested that TVK has offered the Deputy Chief Minister post to VCK leader Thirumavalavan as part of the coalition arrangement.
Meanwhile, reports had emerged that the DMK and AIADMK were exploring the possibility of forming an alternative government. The DMK later clarified that it would not cooperate with “communal parties” and asked the AIADMK to sever ties with the BJP for any possible understanding.