Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay swore in 23 new ministers at Lok Bhavan in Chennai on May 21, 2024 [1], [2].
The expansion aims to secure a broader coalition for the Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) party after it formed a minority government [4], [5]. By inviting other parties into the ministry, Vijay said he seeks to stabilize his administration and increase legislative support.
The swearing-in ceremony began at 10 a.m. [3], [4]. Among the 23 MLAs inducted, 21 belong to the TVK party and two are members of the Congress party [1], [3]. The event took place at Lok Bhavan, the official venue for the proceedings [3].
This move follows a period of political maneuvering to build a sustainable majority in the state assembly. While the Congress party's participation was confirmed, other potential allies faced internal deliberations. Reports said that the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) and the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) had not yet decided whether to join the ministry [5].
Additionally, the expansion encountered challenges regarding the inclusion of rebels from the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Dalama (AIADMK) [5]. The final list of 23 ministers reflects the current successful negotiations between the TVK and its partners to maintain a functioning government in Tamil Nadu [1], [2].
“Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay swore in 23 new ministers at Lok Bhavan in Chennai”
The transition from a minority government to a broader coalition suggests that the TVK is prioritizing stability over total control. By incorporating Congress MLAs, Vijay is attempting to mitigate the risks associated with a minority mandate, though the hesitation of parties like the VCK and IUML indicates that the coalition's full strength remains fragile.
