The Tamil Vanniyar Katchi (TVK) led by Vijay has failed to secure the 118 MLA signatures required to prove a majority in Tamil Nadu [1].

This deadlock prevents the immediate formation of a state government and delays the official swearing-in of Vijay as chief minister. The inability to reach the threshold creates a power vacuum in one of India's most influential states, leaving the legislative assembly in a state of uncertainty.

Reports indicate that no swearing-in ceremony was scheduled for Vijay today [2]. The procedural hurdle stems from a failure to gather the necessary signatures by the required deadline, which is set for May 10, 2026 [1].

Despite the setback, some political alignment remains possible. Three parties — the VCK, CPM, and CPI — have extended their support to the TVK [3]. However, these pledges have not yet translated into the 118 signatures needed to satisfy the governor's requirements for government formation [1].

Other potential partners have distanced themselves from the process. The BJP said it will not align with any party to form the government [3]. This refusal limits the TVK's options for reaching the majority mark through a broader coalition.

Political analysts are monitoring various scenarios regarding the formation of the government. Some reports suggest that Vijay is likely to meet with the governor this evening to discuss the path forward [3]. The situation remains fluid as the May 10 deadline approaches, with the TVK attempting to reconcile procedural rejections and finalize coalition pledges [1, 2].

“TVK failed to secure the required 118 MLA signatures to prove a majority”

The failure of the TVK to secure a majority by the May 10 deadline signals a fragmented mandate in Tamil Nadu. While the support of the VCK, CPM, and CPI provides a foundation, the refusal of the BJP to participate and the inability to formalize signatures suggests that Vijay faces a significant challenge in consolidating power. If a majority is not proven, the state may face a prolonged period of political instability or the necessity of a different coalition arrangement.