India
The political uncertainty surrounding government formation in Tamil Nadu finally came to an end on Saturday after C Joseph Vijay received the formal invitation from Governor R. V. Arlekar to form the next government in the state. The development followed crucial support extended by smaller parties, including the VCK and the IUML, helping Vijay-led TVK cross the majority mark in the Assembly.
The oath-taking ceremony is scheduled to take place at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on May 10 at 10 am. The announcement was made by the Raj Bhavan shortly after Vijay met the Governor in Chennai on Saturday evening.
The road to government formation was marked by intense political negotiations over the past several days. Vijay, who emerged as the leader of the single-largest party in the Assembly elections, had been working to gather support from regional and smaller allies after his party fell short of the halfway mark on its own.
In the April 23 Assembly elections, Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) secured 108 seats, making it the biggest party in the state. The party’s tally rose to 120 after support from VCK and IUML, allowing Vijay to formally stake claim to power.
Friday turned out to be a particularly hectic day for the actor-turned-politician. Vijay first met Governor Arlekar at Lok Bhavan for the third time since the election results were declared. He later visited offices of Left parties to personally thank them for extending support to his coalition efforts.
There was also uncertainty over the Governor’s availability, as Arlekar was reportedly preparing to leave for Kerala, where he also holds additional charge. However, the visit was later cancelled, paving the way for the crucial meeting with Vijay and the final decision on government formation.
Despite being invited to form the government, Vijay faces an immediate political test. The Governor has directed him to prove his majority on the floor of the Assembly on or before May 13, 2026. The confidence vote is expected to be the first major challenge for the newly formed administration.
Another issue awaiting resolution is Vijay’s dual electoral victory. The TVK chief contested and won from two constituencies during the Assembly elections. According to Election Commission rules, he will now have to vacate one seat.
Vijay’s rise marks a significant shift in Tamil Nadu politics, with the film star successfully converting his massive popularity into electoral success in his first major Assembly battle. His swearing-in ceremony is expected to witness the presence of senior political leaders, party workers, film personalities, and thousands of supporters from across the state.
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