Rajinikanth meets former Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin after DMK's poll setback

Rajinikanth meets MK Stalin (Pic/X)

In a significant political development following the Tamil Nadu Assembly election results, superstar Rajinikanth on Wednesday met Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) President M.K. Stalin at his residence in Alwarpet, Chennai, amid intense political activity surrounding government formation in the state. Stalin has already resigned from the post of Chief Minister after his party's defeat in the recent election.

Rajinikanth meets Stalin

According to a report in IANS, Rajinikanth expressed solidarity with Stalin after the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam's disappointing performance in the Assembly elections and conveyed that he would continue to stand by the senior leader during difficult political circumstances. The meeting lasted for some time and is being viewed in political circles as an important gesture of personal and political support at a time when the DMK is facing one of its biggest electoral setbacks in recent years.

The DMK, which had been in power for one term under Stalin's leadership, managed to secure only 59 seats in the 234-member Assembly, losing power after a high-voltage election campaign dominated by anti-incumbency sentiments and the dramatic rise of actor-politician Vijay and his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).

While Rajinikanth met Stalin at his residence, senior leaders from the DMK-led alliance, including the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) and Left parties, visited 'Anna Arivalayam', the DMK headquarters, and extended support to the party leadership following the defeat. Party insiders said the meetings focused on maintaining opposition unity and preparing for the evolving political situation in the state.

Vijay meets TN Governor to form government

As Rajinikanth met Stalin, at the same time, Vijay met with the state governor to stake claims in the governance. TVK emerged as the single largest party with 108 seats, falling short of the majority mark of 118. The Congress, which won five seats, has already announced conditional support to Vijay for government formation, while TVK has also reached out to the CPI, CPI(M), and VCK, seeking additional backing.

Vijay is likely to take oath as Chief Minister on May 8, 2026. The TVK chief has submitted a letter to the governor seeking to form the state government. He also assured that the party will prove majority in a stipulated time.