Actor-turned-politician Vijay has officially received the green signal from Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Arlekar to form the next government in the state. The leader of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) is scheduled to be sworn in as Chief Minister at 10 am tomorrow.

Vijay, along with senior party colleagues, presented letters of support from 120 legislators, comfortably crossing the majority threshold of 118 in the 234-member Assembly. Key parties extending unconditional backing include the Indian National Congress, Communist Party of India, Communist Party of India (Marxist), and Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi. Their combined support enabled TVK to stake a successful claim to power.

A Historic Political Shift

With this development, Vijay becomes Tamil Nadu’s first non-Dravidian Chief Minister in nearly six decades, marking a significant shift in the state’s political landscape. However, details regarding the composition of his Cabinet and the number of ministers to be inducted remain unclear.

The invitation from the Governor followed multiple attempts by Vijay to demonstrate majority support. Earlier meetings had ended without success due to insufficient letters from legislators. Persistent negotiations over the past week eventually secured the necessary numbers.

Narrow Majority After Intense Negotiations

TVK had emerged as the largest party in the recent Assembly elections, winning 108 seats in its electoral debut. However, it initially fell short of the majority mark. After the results were declared, the party opened talks with several regional and national parties, many of which were previously aligned with the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK).

The alliance now commands 120 seats, though the margin above the majority mark remains slim. Vijay, who was elected from two constituencies, will vacate one seat, slightly reducing his party’s individual tally but not affecting the coalition’s majority.

Celebrations and Controversy

Following the Governor’s decision, TVK supporters gathered outside the party’s headquarters in Chennai to celebrate, bursting crackers and waving party flags.

Meanwhile, criticism has surfaced from Amma Makkal Munnettra Kazagam (AAMK), an NDA ally, which alleged that attempts were made to influence legislators during the government formation process.

The unfolding events also saw the re-emergence of “resort politics” in the state — a strategy last prominently observed after the passing of former Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa in 2016. Reports indicate that Congress MLAs were moved to Hyderabad, while TVK legislators were accommodated at a resort near Mamallapuram amid negotiations.

There is speculation that supporting parties may seek significant portfolios in the new Cabinet, including the possibility of a Deputy Chief Minister position, though no official announcements have been made.

With the oath-taking ceremony imminent, Tamil Nadu now prepares for a new political chapter under Vijay’s leadership.