C. Joseph Vijay, chief of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), has not yet been invited by the Governor to form a government in Tamil Nadu.
The delay leaves the state in political limbo as the Governor evaluates competing claims to power in a legislative assembly without a clear majority.
Vijay met with Governor Rajendra Arlekar at Lok Bhavan in Chennai to stake a claim to lead the government. While TVK emerged as a dominant force, the Governor has not yet issued a formal invitation for the swearing-in ceremony. This hesitation stems from the lack of a clear legislative majority and the Governor's requirement for a formal letter of support from other parties.
Reports indicate that TVK is considering a mass resignation of its legislators if the Governor asks the DMK or AIADMK to form the government instead [2]. The number of TVK legislators is reported between 107 [2] and 108 [1].
Speculation has grown regarding a potential alliance between the DMK and AIADMK that could effectively sideline TVK. A spokesperson for the CPI said, "The Governor must act in line with the Constitution. The people of Tamil Nadu have not delivered a clear mandate. Still, TVK has emerged with 108 seats. On this basis, TVK chief Vijay met the Governor and staked claim to form the government" [1].
The political stalemate continues as parties negotiate. A DMK spokesperson said the party would wait until May 10, 2026, for any alliance decision [3].
“TVK is considering a mass resignation of its legislators if the Governor asks the DMK or AIADMK to form the government.”
The current deadlock reflects a high-stakes gamble for the TVK. By threatening a mass resignation, Vijay is attempting to force the Governor's hand to avoid a coalition that excludes his party. However, if the DMK and AIADMK successfully form a pact, TVK risks losing its leverage and potentially triggering fresh elections or a prolonged period of instability in the state.
