C.J. Joseph Vijay, chief of Tamil Nadu Vetri Kazhagam (TVK), is meeting Governor Rajendra Arlekar today to claim the state government [1], [2].

The meeting marks a critical step in resolving a hung assembly following the April 23, 2026, elections [1], [5]. Because no single party secured a clear majority, the ability to form a stable coalition will determine the next leadership of the state.

Vijay is scheduled to meet the governor at the Lok Bhavan in Chennai at 6 p.m. [2], [5]. He intends to demonstrate his ability to govern by presenting the signatures of 118 supporting MLAs [1]. This coalition is built on the foundation of TVK emerging as the single-largest party in the assembly [1], [3].

Reports on the exact number of seats won by TVK vary slightly between sources. Some records indicate the party won 108 seats [7], while others state only that the party crossed the 100-seat mark [2]. Regardless of the specific tally, the support of left-wing parties has become the deciding factor in the government's formation.

"CPI, CPI(M) have extended unconditional support to TVK chief Vijay," a CPI spokesperson said [3]. This alliance includes the CPI, CPI(M), and the VCK [3]. A representative for the CPI said the governor must act in line with the Constitution because the people of Tamil Nadu did not deliver a clear mandate [4].

Other major players remain cautious. TKS Elangovan, a spokesperson for the DMK, said the party has not discussed any alliance with the AIADMK and would wait until May 10 [6]. Additionally, while some parties have aligned with Vijay, the IUML won two seats in the 2026 election [8] and has indicated it will accept the decision made by outgoing CM M.K. Stalin [7].

“"CPI, CPI(M) have extended unconditional support to TVK chief Vijay."”

The emergence of TVK as the single-largest party disrupts the traditional dominance of the DMK and AIADMK in Tamil Nadu politics. By securing the backing of the left parties to reach 118 MLAs, Vijay is attempting to transition from a political newcomer to the chief executive of the state, though the lack of a decisive mandate may lead to a fragile coalition government subject to frequent negotiation.