Key Allies of DMK-led Alliance Unlikely to Support Actor-Politician Vijay for Tamil Nadu Government Formation

Key allies of the DMK-led alliance have signaled their reluctance to back actor-politician C. Joseph Vijay in forming the next government in Tamil Nadu, raising doubts about the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK)’s path to power despite being the largest party. The recent Assembly elections, held on April 23, featured a competitive race among the DMK, AIADMK, Naam Tamilar Katchi, and TVK.
Following the completion of the vote count on May 4, TVK secured 108 seats out of the 234-member House, falling short of the required majority of 118 seats. Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MDMK) General Secretary Vaiko has stated that the alliance partners of the DMK are not inclined to support Vijay, ruling out any potential post-election realignment.
Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) leader Thol. Thirumavalavan has echoed a similar sentiment, highlighting the enduring ideological alignment between Left parties and VCK. Thirumavalavan emphasized the collective decision-making process and the historical secular political path shared by the parties, indicating no current plans to support TVK.
Adding to the uncertainty, Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) leader Premalatha Vijayakanth refrained from committing support, despite acknowledging Vijay’s close relationship with her late husband Vijayakanth. Premalatha noted the independent ideological stance of the party and refrained from making any explicit commitments.
DMDK, which contested 10 seats as part of the DMK alliance, managed to secure only one constituency—Virudhachalam. Premalatha highlighted a subdued atmosphere within the alliance, drawing parallels to historical instances when celebrations were withheld after key losses. She noted a similar sentiment following DMK President M.K. Stalin’s defeat.
In the midst of this political impasse, Vijay has initiated internal discussions at the party’s Panaiyur office in Chennai, engaging with newly-elected MLAs and senior leaders. With no concrete assurances from potential allies, the upcoming days will be critical as Vijay explores strategies to secure a majority and assert his claim to form the government.