Chennai: Actor-turned-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has moved closer to forming the government in Tamil Nadu after securing crucial backing from the Left parties, significantly boosting the prospects of the popular star becoming the state’s next Chief Minister.
In a significant political development, the Communist Party of India (CPI) formally extended support to TVK by issuing a support letter. The Communist Party of India (Marxist) or CPM has also decided to back Vijay’s party. Sources indicate that TVK leaders have reached an understanding with the Left parties, agreeing to allocate the Labour Department to them in the event of government formation.
With this fresh support, TVK’s strength has reached 116 seats. The party is now just a few short of the magic majority mark. Political observers believe that the support of two MLAs from the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) would push TVK past the halfway mark required to prove majority in the 234-member Tamil Nadu Assembly.
TVK has already held discussions with VCK, and party leader Thirumavalavan has reportedly been promised a ministerial position as part of the alliance arrangement.
Vijay is expected to meet Governor R.N. Ravi again on Friday at Raj Bhavan to stake claim for government formation. This follows earlier meetings between the TVK leader and the Governor.
The rapid consolidation of support underscores TVK’s emergence as a major force after the recent assembly elections. Having contested independently, the party has managed to stitch together a post-poll alliance that now appears capable of commanding a majority.
The Left parties’ decision to back TVK is seen as strategic, aimed at influencing key labour and welfare policies in the state. Their long-standing experience in trade union movements and advocacy for workers’ rights is expected to shape the new government’s priorities if the alliance succeeds.
Political analysts note that the inclusion of VCK, a party with strong Dalit support, further broadens the social base of the potential ruling coalition. The promised ministerial berth to Thirumavalavan is being viewed as a gesture to ensure smooth coordination and long-term stability of the arrangement.
As political activity intensifies in Chennai, all eyes remain on Raj Bhavan. If Vijay successfully proves his majority with the support of allies, it would mark a remarkable transition for the Tamil superstar from reel life hero to real-life Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.
The coming hours are expected to be crucial as TVK and its allies finalize the numbers and formalities required for government formation. Senior leaders from the supporting parties are likely to accompany Vijay during his meeting with the Governor.