The political suspense in Tamil Nadu has finally come to an end. The path has now been cleared for Vijay, chief of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), to become the Chief Minister. Although TVK emerged as the single largest party with 108 seats in the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, uncertainty prevailed over the last two days after Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlkar reportedly made it clear that Vijay would be invited to take oath as Chief Minister only if he proved the support of 118 MLAs required to form the government. At the same time, reports suggesting that long-time political rivals Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) were holding talks to jointly form the government created intense political drama in the state. Statements made by a few leaders further strengthened this speculation.
However, the political suspense came to an end on Friday after parties that were until recently allies of the DMK — including Communist Party of India (CPI), Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI-M), and Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) — decided to extend their support to Vijay’s party. With the backing of these parties, Vijay has now secured the support of the required 118 MLAs needed to form the government. Along with the Congress party, support from three additional parties has strengthened his position further. Vijay is expected to meet the Governor once again with letters of support from these parties and request him to facilitate the formation of the government. As TVK has now secured the required majority, party workers and supporters have erupted in celebrations. Festive scenes and celebrations are continuing outside the TVK headquarters.