Rahul Gandhi arrived in Chennai on Sunday to attend the oath-taking ceremony of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay as the new chief minister of Tamil Nadu.
The event signals a significant shift in the state's political landscape, as the Congress party provides critical support to a new leadership coalition. This alliance is essential for maintaining stability in the regional government.
Gandhi was welcomed by local Congress leaders at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium, where the ceremony took place [1, 2]. The swearing-in was scheduled for 10 a.m. IST on May 10, 2026 [3, 4].
Vijay secured the position after forming a coalition consisting of 120 MLAs [1]. This number exceeds the majority threshold of 118 seats required in the Tamil Nadu assembly to form a government [1]. The coalition includes members from the Congress party, ensuring that the new administration has the necessary legislative backing to operate.
The presence of Gandhi at the venue served as a public demonstration of Congress support for the TVK chief. His arrival and the subsequent greeting by party officials highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership between the national party and the regional TVK leadership.
The ceremony marks the official transition of power in the state. By coordinating with the TVK, Congress aims to strengthen its influence in the south through a collaborative governing model.
“Rahul Gandhi arrived in Chennai on Sunday to attend the oath-taking ceremony of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay”
The formation of a government led by the TVK with Congress support indicates a realignment of power in Tamil Nadu. By backing a coalition that surpasses the 118-seat majority threshold, the Congress party is leveraging a strategic partnership with a new political force to maintain a presence in the state administration.
