C. Joseph Vijay, chief of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), is seeking support from the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) to form a government in Tamil Nadu.
The outcome of these negotiations will determine if Vijay can secure the necessary numbers to lead the state assembly or if the region will face a prolonged political deadlock.
TVK currently holds 108 seats [1], leaving the party two seats short of the 118-seat majority threshold required to govern [1]. This shortfall became critical after the AIADMK withdrew its support for the party. The VCK holds two MLAs who could provide the exact number of votes needed to bridge the gap [2].
Reports from Friday indicate that no swearing-in ceremony has been scheduled as the power struggle continues [1]. The situation has drawn attention from other regional leaders. Omar Abdullah, the chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, commented on the development on May 8, 2026.
"Should be given chance to form govt if he proves majority," Abdullah said [3].
The VCK is expected to make a decision regarding its support, which could effectively seal the battle for power in the state [2]. While TVK has staked its claim to form the government, the party must first resolve the numerical deficit to avoid a constitutional crisis in the assembly.
This political maneuvering follows the Tamil Nadu assembly elections held earlier this month. The transition of power remains uncertain as the party seeks a stable coalition to satisfy the legislative requirements [1].
“TVK currently holds 108 seats, leaving the party two seats short of the 118-seat majority threshold.”
The stability of the Tamil Nadu government now hinges on a small minority party, the VCK. By holding the two seats necessary for a majority, the VCK gains significant leverage to negotiate policy concessions or cabinet positions in exchange for their support. This creates a fragile coalition environment where the TVK's legislative agenda may be heavily influenced by a much smaller partner.
