Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi departed Delhi on May 10, 2026 [1], to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Vijay as Tamil Nadu’s new chief minister.

This transition marks a significant shift in the state's political landscape as Vijay assumes leadership following a series of electoral gains. The presence of the Leader of Opposition underscores the strategic importance of the new administration in the southern state.

Gandhi left from Delhi’s IGI Airport to reach Chennai for the event, which was scheduled for 10 a.m. [2]. Vijay's party, the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), secured 108 seats in the assembly [3]. This tally falls short of the majority threshold, which is reported as either 118 seats [4] or 120 seats [5].

To secure a stable government, Vijay has gathered support from several allies. The CPI has pledged two seats, the CPI(M) has pledged two seats, and the Congress party has pledged five seats [2]. These additions help the TVK-led coalition reach the necessary numbers to form a government in the 234-member assembly [4].

The ceremony serves as the formal start of Vijay's tenure. The transition follows a period of intense political maneuvering among the state's major parties, including the DMK and AIADMK [2].

Gandhi's trip to Chennai is part of a broader effort to witness the democratic transition as Vijay takes the oath of office [1]. The event brings together various political factions to acknowledge the new leadership in one of India's most influential states.

“Rahul Gandhi departed Delhi on May 10, 2026, to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Vijay”

The formation of a Vijay-led government, supported by the Congress and Left parties, indicates a realignment of power in Tamil Nadu. Because the TVK did not win an outright majority, the new administration will rely on a coalition, making the support of parties like Congress essential for legislative stability and policy implementation.