The political picture in Tamil Nadu shifted further as the CPI and CPI(M) extended their support to the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), moving C. Joseph Vijay’s coalition closer to the numbers needed to govern. The Left parties framed the move as aimed at ensuring stability and preventing the imposition of Governor’s rule in the state.
By that evening, the TVK-led alliance had reached 116 MLAs — including 108 from the TVK and five from the Congress, with the Left making up the rest. Although some of that support came without conditions, Vijay signalled a collaborative approach, reportedly setting aside ministerial berths for his partners: two for the Congress and one each for the CPI, CPM and VCK.
Eyes on the VCK
Attention turned to the VCK, which was due to announce its decision the next morning, May 9. The party had earlier voiced reservations about the TVK’s approach, but the momentum was clearly with the coalition. The Left, for its part, said its focus was on stability and protecting the state’s interests — part of a broader shift away from the long-standing DMK–AIADMK duopoly toward a multi-party cabinet.
The final stretch
Vijay was scheduled to meet Governor Rajendra Arlekar that evening for the third time to reiterate his claim to form the government. With the alliance a couple of seats short of the 118 mark, the VCK’s backing would provide a cushion, though analysts already read the existing strength as a clear signal for change as the state prepared for a swearing-in.
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