A major political showdown has erupted in Tamil Nadu after VCK leader Vanni Arasu took oath in Chief Minister Joseph Vijay’s cabinet, triggering a bitter public feud between the DMK, VCK and TVK. Once-close allies are now openly attacking each other as post-election alliance politics reshape the state. The controversy exploded after DMK MP A Raja posted a sharp metaphor comparing the VCK to a “crooked coconut tree,” accusing the party of turning against the alliance that helped it rise politically. The remark sparked huge backlash online, especially after another controversial post by Raja was later deleted.

Tamil Nadu’s dramatic political deadlock may finally be ending as Vijay appears to have secured the numbers needed to form the next government. After days of uncertainty, protests, and intense backroom negotiations, Congress, VCK, CPI and CPI(M) have reportedly extended support to TVK, pushing the alliance to the crucial majority mark of 118 in the 234-member Assembly. Vijay is now expected to meet Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar once again to stake claim to form the government, just days after being told that TVK lacked sufficient support.