Political uncertainty continued in Tamil Nadu on Thursday after Governor R. V. Arlekar reportedly asked C Joseph Vijay to first demonstrate majority support before being invited to form the next government.
The development has delayed the swearing-in process once again despite Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam emerging as the single-largest party in the Assembly elections.
Second Meeting Between Governor And Vijay In 24 Hours
Vijay met Governor Arlekar at Lok Bhavan for the second time within a day as efforts to break the political deadlock intensified.
Sources said Vijay argued during the meeting that, as leader of the largest party in the Assembly, he should be given the first opportunity to form the government and take oath as Chief Minister.
However, the Governor reportedly maintained that constitutional procedure required proof of legislative majority before any formal invitation could be issued.
According to sources, the Governor assured that the oath ceremony could move forward immediately once TVK demonstrated the required support numbers.
TVK Intensifies Alliance Outreach
Amid the ongoing uncertainty, TVK has accelerated talks with smaller parties and independent legislators to strengthen its claim to power.
On Wednesday, elected MLAs from the Pattali Makkal Katchi met Vijay at his residence in Chennai, fuelling speculation about possible post-poll support arrangements.
Vijay has also reportedly reached out to leaders of the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) seeking support for government formation.
Left Parties Yet To Finalise Stand
Leaders from Left parties signalled that discussions regarding support to the Vijay-led alliance are still underway.
M. Veerapandian publicly urged the Governor to invite TVK to form the government first and allow the majority test to happen on the Assembly floor.
Meanwhile, CPI(M) leader P Shanmugam said the party would take a final decision on extending support after internal discussions scheduled for Friday.
Political Tension Builds Ahead Of Possible Floor Test
The evolving situation has triggered intense political activity across Tamil Nadu, with parties exploring coalition options and possible support strategies.
Constitutional experts note that while the single-largest party is often invited first, Governors generally seek assurance of majority support to avoid instability or immediate collapse of the government.
As negotiations continue behind closed doors, attention is now focused on whether TVK can gather enough backing to cross the majority mark and pave the way for Vijay’s first term in office.
