05 May,2026 06:14 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Vijay (Pic/X)
Actor-politician C. Joseph Vijay-led Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has staked a claim to form the government in Tamil Nadu after emerging as the single largest party in the Assembly elections, winning 108 seats. The results of the state assembly elections was announced on May 4, 2026. With no party securing the required majority mark of 118 in the 234-member Assembly, the state has entered a phase of political uncertainty and intense negotiations.
Banking on its strong electoral performance, the TVK has approached Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, asserting its right to form the government and seeking a two-week window to prove its majority on the floor of the house.
The development has triggered speculation over possible alliances, as the TVK remains 10 seats short of the halfway mark. Attention has now shifted to which parties or independents may extend support to Vijay's party, enabling it to form a stable government.
Meanwhile, Congress Tamil Nadu in-charge Girish Chodankar said the election verdict reflected a clear desire for change among the people.
Interacting with media persons, he noted that young voters and women had played a key role in the TVK's strong performance. "People have voted for change. Youth and women, in particular, have supported the TVK in large numbers. We respect the people's verdict," he said.
Chodankar also indicated that several Congress leaders were open to extending support if the situation demanded. "Once the TVK elects its legislature party leader, they can approach us. No one should underestimate the TVK," he cautioned.
With the numbers game now taking centre stage, all eyes are on the Governor's next move and the evolving political alignments that will determine who forms the next government in Tamil Nadu.
Reacting to Rahul Gandhi's congratulatory message on X, Vijay wrote, "My sincere thanks to the Honorable Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha for the call and kind wishes! We shall remain committed to excellence in public service, and preserving the cultural ethos of our state which requires collective cooperation. Beyond politics, we shall prioritize for the welfare of the people of Tamil Nadu."
He also responded to PM Narendra Modi's post on X congratulating him. He wrote back, "Thank you, Hon'ble PMOIndia, for your greetings. The well-being of our people remains our only goal. âÂÂTranscending politics, we shall focus on the State's progress and the welfare of people of Tamil Nadu. We look forward to the Union Government's support in this endeavor.