The Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) announced unconditional support for the Tamizhaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) to help form the Tamil Nadu government on May 9, 2026 [3].
This alliance is critical because the TVK lacks the necessary seats to govern alone. The support ensures the party can reach the threshold required to claim power amid ongoing negotiations with other political factions.
In the recent assembly election, the TVK won 108 seats [1]. However, the 234-member assembly requires a majority of 118 MLAs to form a government [2]. The VCK's backing provides the additional numbers needed to bridge that gap.
The decision followed a meeting of party leaders at a hotel within the state. VCK President Thol Thirumavalavan confirmed the move in a support letter dated May 9, 2026 [3].
"We extend our unconditional support to TVK for the formation of the government," Thirumavalavan said.
TVK Chief Vijay acknowledged the strategic importance of the partnership. "With VCK’s backing we have the magic number," Vijay said.
While the VCK has committed its support, the political landscape remains fluid. The TVK continues to engage in negotiations with the AIADMK. Former AIADMK Chief Edappadi K. Palaniswami offered his congratulations to the TVK leadership on May 9, 2026.
"I extend my heartfelt congratulations," Palaniswami said.
Other parties have presented conflicting signals. While some reports indicate broader backing from the VCK and IUML, AMMK chief Dhinakaran has refuted claims that his party supports the TVK.
“"We extend our unconditional support to TVK for the formation of the government."”
The VCK's unconditional support effectively removes the immediate mathematical barrier preventing the TVK from forming a government. By securing the 'magic number' of 118 seats, Vijay can now approach the governor with a viable coalition, though the ongoing talks with the AIADMK suggest the TVK is seeking an even more dominant mandate to ensure long-term stability in the assembly.
