Tamil Nadu Govt Formation: Congress Backs TVK, DMK Furious, Sarma Resigns

Top Summary

What happened: Congress offered support to TVK to form government in Tamil Nadu after the party fell short of majority.
Why it matters: Marks a significant political shift, potentially reshaping alliance dynamics ahead of the 2029 general elections.
What changes for people: New government formation in Tamil Nadu, likely impacting policy decisions and governance.
Who is affected: Tamil Nadu citizens, political parties (TVK, Congress, DMK, AIADMK), and national political alliances.

Congress Extends Support to TVK

The Indian National Congress (INC) has decided to support the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) in forming the government in Tamil Nadu.

This decision comes after TVK, led by Vijay, secured 108 seats in the recent Assembly elections, 10 seats short of a majority.

Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC) President K Selvaperunthagai confirmed the support after a virtual meeting with party MLAs and senior leaders.

TVK MLAs Moved to Resort

Following the election results, 108 newly elected TVK MLAs have been moved to a private luxury resort in Mamallapuram.

Tight security is in place with a strong police presence. Over 50 MLAs are at the Four Points Star hotel in Poonjeri, Mamallapuram.

This decision follows a meeting with party chief Vijay, with more legislators expected throughout the day.

DMK Reacts Angrily to Congress's Decision

The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has strongly criticized its ally, Congress, for supporting TVK.

DMK spokesperson T K S Elangovan stated,

"Right from the beginning, there were talks that some people wanted to support Vijay and join his party. Congress is doing it in every state, and ultimately, they are losing in all of them."

DMK spokesperson Saravanan Annadurai added,

"Congress has offered its support to the TVK, and that is why we called it backstabbing... We wish good luck to Vijay when he takes oath on 7th May."

AIADMK Remains Cautious

AIADMK leader Kovai Sathyan said that TVK has not reached out to them for support.

"There is a moment of happening. Let us wait for the outcome. The high command will take a decision soon... The lines of communication are open so let's wait for the outcome..."

Sathyan emphasized that the decision lies with Vijay on whether he wants to complete a full term.

Governor Awaits Clarity from TVK

Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar confirmed receiving a letter from TVK claiming majority support and seeking government formation.

"I have received a letter from TVK. They will meet me in the evening. They have stated that they have the majority and they should be called for the formation of the government."

The Governor is scheduled to meet with TVK chief Vijay and awaits further details.

Congress Sets Conditions for Support

Congress's support is conditional upon TVK excluding communal forces that do not believe in the Constitution of India.

The alliance aims to bring back Perunthalaivar Kamaraj's glory days, committed to Thanthai Periyar's social justice ideals and Dr BR Ambedkar's constitutional ideals.

Smaller Parties' Role

Smaller parties like PMK (4 seats), CPI, CPI(M), and VCK (2 seats each) are expected to play a crucial role in supporting the TVK-led formation.

Himanta Biswa Sarma Resigns as Assam CM

In Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma has resigned as Chief Minister. He indicated that the oath-taking ceremony would likely be post May 11.

Shri JP Nadda and Nayab Singh Saini will be the central observers. The legislative party will decide on the next CM.

What to Watch Next

The next steps involve TVK's meeting with the Governor to formally stake claim to form the government. The focus will be on whether Vijay can secure enough support from smaller parties to reach the majority mark and how the DMK navigates this new political landscape.