Tamil Nadu is witnessing an unprecedented political crisis as suspense continues over government formation even four days after the election results. While actor Vijay-led Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has emerged as the single largest party with 108 seats, it remains short of the 118-seat majority required to form the government, triggering intense political manoeuvring by both DMK and AIADMK.
Amid fears of potential defection attempts, the AIADMK has shifted more than 28 of its 47 MLAs to a luxury resort in neighbouring Puducherry. The legislators are reportedly being kept under tight security and restricted communication for the next seven days to prevent any political poaching, as the party moves to safeguard its numerical strength during the ongoing uncertainty.
At the resort, AIADMK MLAs unanimously elected Edappadi K. Palaniswami as the legislature party leader. Addressing the gathering, he expressed confidence that the party would soon form the government despite lacking a clear majority, stating that positive developments were on the way. His remarks have further intensified political speculation across the state.
Meanwhile, a key DMK meeting chaired by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin in Chennai reportedly passed a resolution expressing strong dissatisfaction over Congress extending support to Vijay. The party is said to have authorised Stalin to take any “emergency political decisions” necessary to ensure a stable government and prevent fresh elections, adding another layer of complexity to the evolving situation.
The ongoing deadlock has been largely attributed to the Governor’s stance that any party proving majority will be invited to form the government. This has opened the door for backchannel negotiations, with reports suggesting possible DMK-AIADMK discussions. At the same time, Vijay is said to be preparing a counter-strategy involving the mass resignation of his 108 MLAs if attempts are made to sideline the mandate.