After a transformative mandate in Tamil Nadu, the Congress today announced to extend support to actor-turned-politician C. Vijay’s Tamizhaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), bringing him closer to power while drawing a clear red line on the nature of the alliance. The stunning electoral debut by TVK disrupted the decades-long dominance of the DMK and AIADMK but fell short of a majority.
The 234-member Assembly delivered a historic verdict, with TVK securing 108 seats, only 10 short of the halfway mark of 118. Despite missing a clear majority, the scale of its victory has positioned Vijay as the central figure in government formation, eclipsing established players like the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam and the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam.
‘Support with clear conditions’
In an official communication, the Congress Legislative Party (CLP) confirmed its decision to back TVK in forming the government. However, the support comes with a non-negotiable clause.
“Our support shall be conditional upon the TVK keeping out from this alliance any communal forces that do not believe in the Constitution of India,” the party stated.
The Congress framed its decision as a constitutional obligation to uphold a mandate rooted in secular and welfare-driven governance. It emphasised that the alliance would be anchored in shared ideological commitments rather than mere arithmetic.
Congress leaders called the verdict a “clear, strong and overwhelming” endorsement of a secular and progressive alternative, particularly resonating with the youth.
Alliance Rooted in Ideological Legacy
The Congress underscored that the partnership aims to revive governance inspired by leaders like Perunthalaivar Kamaraj, Thanthai Periyar, and BR Ambedkar. The statement highlighted a long-term vision extending beyond government formation to future elections, including local bodies, the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha.
The letter, signed by Tamil Nadu Congress in charge, Girish Chodankar, reiterated that the alliance would be built on “mutual respect, appropriate share, and shared responsibility.”
It further read, “Mr. Vijay and Shri Rahul Gandhi jointly pledge to respect this historic verdict of the people of Tamil Nadu for a secular and progressive government, and to fulfil the dreams and promises of the people – especially the youth of Tamil Nadu.
Governor initiates process
Amid the fast-moving developments, Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar confirmed receiving a formal claim from TVK.
The Governor said, “I have received a letter from TVK. They will meet me in the evening. They have stated that they have the majority and they should be called for the formation of the government. Yes, I have an appointment (with TVK chief Vijay). A new govt will come now.”
Numbers game still in play
While Congress support strengthens TVK’s position, the party still needs additional numbers to cross the majority mark. Smaller parties, including Left allies, could play a crucial role. At the same time, political options remain fluid, with speculation that TVK could explore alternatives, including support from the AIADMK, which commands a larger bloc.
For now, Congress’ conditional backing has tilted the balance in Vijay’s favour, but the final shape of the government will depend on how the remaining numbers fall into place in the coming days.