Tamil Nadu Government Formation: Vijay Stakes Claim, EPS Seeks Governor Meeting
Chennai | May 7, 2026: Political activity intensified in Tamil Nadu as Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay met Governor Rajendra Arlekar to stake a claim to form the government after emerging as the single-largest party in the Assembly elections. Sources said Vijay currently has the support of around 112 MLAs but still needs to cross the majority mark of 118 seats in the 234-member Assembly.
Congress, which won five seats in the elections, has already extended support to TVK. However, the numbers game continues as Vijay reportedly sought more time to secure additional backing from smaller parties and independent MLAs. Political uncertainty has triggered intense discussions and backchannel talks among major parties in the state.
Meanwhile, AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami (EPS) has also sought time to meet Governor Rajendra Arlekar amid the ongoing government formation impasse. Sources said AIADMK has been engaged in coalition negotiations and has reportedly given TVK time until 1 pm to take a final decision regarding alliance discussions.
The DMK has also stepped up political consultations by calling a meeting of its newly elected MLAs under party president MK Stalin. Reports suggest the party is preparing for a strong opposition role in the Assembly after winning 59 seats. At the same time, smaller parties, including the VCK and Left parties, are yet to announce their final stand on supporting any alliance for government formation.
Adding to the political drama, reports of “resort politics” have surfaced in Tamil Nadu, with several AIADMK MLAs reportedly shifted to resorts in Puducherry amid fears of defections and intense political negotiations. TVK has also held meetings with its legislators in Chennai as discussions continue over possible support arrangements.
Despite the uncertainty, preparations for Vijay’s possible swearing-in ceremony had reportedly begun earlier in Chennai before being delayed due to the unresolved majority issue. With all major parties actively engaged in negotiations, Tamil Nadu’s government formation process remains wide open and politically charged.
