Prove Numbers, Then Take Oath: Tamil Nadu Governor to TVK chief Vijay amid govt formation deadlock

Tamil Nadu Governor has asked TVK chief Vijay to prove majority support before taking oath as Chief Minister, deepening uncertainty over government formation after the fractured Assembly verdict.

Chennai: The political deadlock in Tamil Nadu continued on Thursday after Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar reportedly told TVK chief Vijay that he would be invited to take oath as Chief Minister only after demonstrating majority support in the Assembly.

According to sources, the Governor stressed the need for a stable government and indicated that constitutional procedures would be followed before extending an invitation to form the government.

Keep Communal Forces Out: Congress drops DMK, offers ‘conditional’ support to Vijay’s TVK in Tamil Nadu

Vijay Stakes Claim as Single Largest Party Leader

During his meeting with the Governor, Vijay argued that as the leader of the single largest party in the Assembly, his party should be given the first opportunity to form the government.

The Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) secured 108 seats in the Assembly elections, emerging ahead of all other parties but falling short of the majority mark. Vijay reportedly expressed confidence that his party would eventually prove its strength on the floor of the House.

This was Vijay’s second meeting with the Governor in two days. Earlier, he had submitted a list of supporting MLAs while formally staking claim to power.

Numbers Still Short of Majority

Despite support from the Congress party’s five MLAs, TVK’s tally currently stands at 112. However, the effective strength of the Assembly has reduced after Vijay won from two constituencies and is required to vacate one seat.

With the majority mark now standing at 117 in the 233-member House, TVK still needs support from at least five more legislators to secure power.

CPI Extends Supportive Stand

The Communist Party of India (CPI) backed Vijay’s claim to form the government, saying democratic conventions favour inviting the single largest party first.

CPI state leadership urged the Governor to allow TVK to prove its majority on the Assembly floor rather than seeking prior proof before the oath ceremony.

Congress Backs Vijay’s TVK; Paving Way for Historic Tamil Nadu Govt

Meanwhile, TVK has intensified outreach efforts by seeking support from smaller regional and Left parties.

Political Negotiations Continue

The Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) legislators have already met Vijay, while talks are ongoing with other parties, including VCK and CPI(M). Left leaders said a final decision on support would be taken after internal consultations.

As negotiations continue, Tamil Nadu remains without clarity on who will ultimately form the next government.