Chennai, 06 May (H.S.):

In a major political development that could reshape Tamil Nadu’s political landscape, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president C. Joseph Vijay on Wednesday formally met Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar and staked claim to form the next government after his party emerged as the single largest formation in the Assembly elections.

Vijay arrived at Lok Bhavan in Chennai amid tight security and high political drama, accompanied by senior TVK leaders including ‘Bussy’ Anand, K.A. Sengottaiyan, Aadhav Arjuna , Arun Raj and others.

The meeting with the Governor lasted for some time, during which the actor-turned-politician reportedly submitted a formal letter seeking an invitation to form the government.

According to sources, Vijay assured the Governor that TVK would demonstrate its majority on the floor of the Assembly within the time frame prescribed by the Constitution. The move comes a day after newly elected TVK MLAs unanimously elected Vijay as the leader of the legislative party, clearing the way for him to formally stake claim.

TVK created political history in its maiden Assembly election by securing 108 seats in the 234-member House, emerging as the single largest party in Tamil Nadu. However, the party remains short of the simple majority mark of 118 seats and is now actively seeking support from other political parties and independents.

Meanwhile, intense political negotiations are under way in Chennai as parties assess the evolving post-poll situation. The Congress has already extended conditional support to TVK, while Left parties and smaller regional outfits are expected to take a decision after internal consultations. The DMK, which lost power after one term, has also begun reviewing its future political strategy as Tamil Nadu heads toward a crucial phase in government formation.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman