Tamil Nadu: Big boost for Thalapathy Vijay as VCK, IUML extend support; TVK crosses magic mark

Chennai: The path for the formation of a new government in Tamil Nadu has been cleared. The VCK, which holds two legislative seats, has announced its support for the Vijay-led TVK. On Saturday, VCK President Thol. Thirumavalavan handed over the official letter confirming this support to TVK General Secretary Adhav Arjun. With the VCK's backing, the total number of legislators supporting the TVK government has now reached 118. In the 234-member Legislative Assembly, the majority mark stands at 118. Despite receiving the VCK's support, there is a possibility of a delay in Vijay's swearing-in ceremony, as the Governor is scheduled to travel to Kerala this evening.

How Much Support Does Vijay Enjoy Now?

In addition to the VCK, Vijay has also secured the support of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML). The TVK now enjoys the backing of the Congress, CPI, CPI(M), VCK, and IUML, bringing its total tally to 121—a figure that comfortably surpasses the majority threshold of 118.

Has TVK Secures Support as Tamil Nadu Governor Heads to Kerala?

The Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) has pledged to support the government to be formed under the leadership of C. Joseph Vijay and his party, the 'Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam' (TVK). The VCK President handed over the letter of support to Adhav Arjun, a close associate of Vijay. The VCK currently holds two seats in the Assembly. Following the receipt of this support, TVK leader Adhav Arjun stated that Vijay would be the next Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. While Vijay has successfully secured the necessary support on one hand, on the other, Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar is scheduled to depart from Chennai for Thiruvananthapuram at 7:10 PM on May 9, 2026.

Has Vijay Met the Governor Three Times?

TVK Chief Vijay has met with Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar three times in connection with forming the government in Tamil Nadu. His first meeting took place on May 6. Subsequently, he met with the Governor on May 7 and May 8. Vijay is also required to submit the letter of support from the VCK to the Governor's official residence (Raj Bhavan). Only after this will the Governor make a decision regarding the administration of the oath. If the Governor departs for Kerala, TVK's wait could be further prolonged.

Does Tamil Nadu's Governor Hail from Goa?

Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar is a native of the Indian state of Goa. He was born on April 23, 1954, in Panaji, the capital of Goa. He is a native resident of Panaji, Goa. He completed his schooling at St. Joseph's Institute in Vasco da Gama and earned a B.Com degree from MES College. He has also served as the State President of the Goa BJP and as the Speaker of the Goa Legislative Assembly (2012–2015).