An AIADMK member of the legislative assembly said Governor Rajendra Arlekar may invite the second-largest party to form the Tamil Nadu government if Vijay fails to prove a majority [1].

The situation creates a high-stakes deadlock in Tamil Nadu following the 2026 assembly elections. While Vijay and his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), have emerged as a significant force, the lack of a clear majority threatens the stability of the state's leadership.

According to an unnamed AIADMK MLA, the window for Vijay to demonstrate legislative support is limited to 48 hours [1]. If this deadline passes without a proven majority, the Governor is expected to look toward the next largest party to ensure the state has a functioning government [1].

The 2026 election results shifted the traditional political landscape of the region. TVK captured nearly 50% of the seats won by the DMK and AIADMK [2]. Despite this substantial gain, the party remains short of the threshold required to govern independently.

Governor Rajendra Arlekar now holds the deciding role in determining who is invited to form the government. The AIADMK MLA said the Governor's priority is to avoid a prolonged political vacuum, a move that would favor the second-largest party if Vijay cannot finalize a coalition quickly [1].

TVK's rise represents a disruption of the long-standing dominance of the DMK and AIADMK. However, the transition from electoral success to executive power depends on the ability to secure the support of other legislators within the strict timeframe set by the Governor's office [2].

“Governor Rajendra Arlekar may invite the second-largest party to form the Tamil Nadu government”

The 2026 Tamil Nadu election has resulted in a fragmented mandate where no single party holds absolute power. By setting a 48-hour deadline, the Governor is prioritizing administrative stability over protracted coalition negotiations. If Vijay cannot bridge the gap between his seat count and a majority, the state may return to a government led by established parties, potentially neutralizing the electoral momentum of the TVK.