AIADMK MLAs Rally Behind Vijay as Alliance Talks with TVK Gain Momentum in Tamil Nadu

A significant political development has emerged in Tamil Nadu, as internal dynamics within the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) appear to be shifting following the recent Assembly elections.

Over two-thirds of AIADMK legislators reportedly convened at the office of C. V. Shanmugam, the party’s Rajya Sabha leader, in Chennai. The gathering is being interpreted as a show of support for actor-turned-politician Vijay, signalling potential differences within the party ranks. Approximately 35 MLAs—constituting a substantial portion of the party’s legislative strength—were present.

Sources indicate that the legislators have urged AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami to consider an alliance with Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, which emerged as a major force in the election but fell short of a majority by 10 seats. Despite this, party spokesperson Kovai Sathyan downplayed speculation of a split, asserting that any decision regarding an alliance would rest with the party’s high command.

“TVK has not invited any party. If they seek stability, they will have to take a call. There is a certain momentum at present; we will wait and watch,” Sathyan stated.

The election results have marked a dramatic shift in the state’s political landscape, with neither of the traditionally dominant Dravidian parties securing a clear mandate. TVK, in its electoral debut, secured 108 seats in the 234-member Assembly, while AIADMK won 47 seats. The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, which previously held power, saw its tally reduced to 59 seats. The remaining seats were distributed among smaller parties, including the Indian National Congress and Left parties.

In its efforts to form a stable government, TVK has already secured the backing of five Congress MLAs and is reportedly in discussions with the Communist Party of India (CPI), Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi, and other regional players to bolster its numbers.

Meanwhile, Palaniswami acknowledged the electoral outcome, stating that he respects the mandate delivered by the people. “I express my gratitude to all voters who fulfilled their democratic duty. The people are the ultimate judges, and we wholeheartedly accept their verdict,” he said, adding that the party would work towards regaining its position.

With government formation underway, Vijay is widely expected to be sworn in as Chief Minister at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in the coming days, marking a potentially transformative moment in Tamil Nadu’s political trajectory.