Tamil Nadu’s Political Thriller: Is Vijay Really Set to Become Chief Minister?

Chennai: Friday was a day in Tamil Nadu politics when equations were seen changing every hour. Actor-turned-politician Vijay sometimes seemed very close to forming the government and sometimes seemed far away from the majority.

Initially there was enthusiasm in the TVK camp with the support of Congress and left parties, but by the evening the stand of IUML and VCK complicated the whole game.

Why is the matter stuck on the majority figure?

The support of 118 MLAs is necessary for majority in the 234-member assembly. TVK's tally reached 116 with the support of 5 Congress MLAs, 2 CPI and 2 CPI(M) MLAs.

Although it was being claimed that majority had been achieved with external support, but according to sources, Vijay met Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar only with the signatures of 116 MLAs. That means the figure was still two less.

Why did VCK change the signals at the last moment?

Initially there were strong signals from VCK supporting the Vijay government. The party also held an online meeting on this issue. But by evening, the party issued a statement saying that different reports were circulating in the media and the final decision would be given by party chief Thol Thirumavalavan on Saturday morning. After this the restlessness of the TVK camp increased further.

Is the matter stuck regarding the post of Deputy CM?

According to sources, VCK demanded the post of Deputy Chief Minister for Thol Thirumavalavan in return for support. Whereas TVK was reportedly ready to give only the Ministry of Urban Development. This tussle further complicated the conversation.

Why did the discussion about ‘missing MLA’ start?

Amidst the political turmoil, discussions about “resort politics” also intensified. There were reports that four Congress MLAs have gone to Hyderabad. Meanwhile, AMMK chief T. T. V. Dhinakaran claimed that his party's MLA Kamaraj has suddenly disappeared. After this, speculations intensified in political circles.

How did the dispute escalate between Vijay and Dhinakaran?

Dhinakaran accused TVK of using fake support letters. He said that the letter bearing Kamaraj's signature was misrepresented. In response, TVK shared a video in which Kamaraj was purportedly seen signing the letter of support. Despite this, Dhinakaran filed a complaint against the party.

Why did AIADMK's entry increase the stir?

Amid the political crisis, TTV Dhinakaran met the governor and demanded that AIADMK chief Edappadi K. Palaniswami be given a chance to form the government. This gave a clear indication that if Vijay could not prove majority, then there could be an attempt by the opposition camp to form an alternative government.

Did DMK also play tricks behind the scenes?

CPI(M) general secretary M. A. Baby claimed that the DMK had also explored the possibility of supporting the AIADMK government from outside so as to keep Vijay away from power. However, left-wing parties opposed this idea. He said that the public has rejected both DMK and AIADMK, hence the largest party should get the chance first.

Why did the Left parties stand with Vijay?

Left parties described their support as an ideological fight. MA Baby alleged that BJP is trying to influence the mandate through the governor's office. He said supporting TVK was necessary to protect “secularism, federalism and the people's decision”.