30 AIADMK MLAs Poised to Back TVK? Key Question Ahead of Vijay’s Swearing-In
Chennai, May 6, 2026 — In a dramatic twist following the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, the question of whether around 30 AIADMK MLAs will extend support to actor-turned-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has emerged as the decisive factor in government formation.
TVK stunned political observers by winning 108 seats in its maiden electoral outing, becoming the single-largest party in the 234-member Assembly. However, it falls short of the 118-seat majority mark. With Congress extending support through its 5 MLAs, TVK’s tally reaches approximately 113, leaving it in need of additional backing to prove majority and form the government.
The AIADMK Factor
Reports suggest that nearly two-thirds of AIADMK’s 47 MLAs — around 30 to 35 — are inclined to back TVK. Senior AIADMK leader and Rajya Sabha MP C.V. Shanmugam is said to be playing a key role, with multiple meetings reportedly held at his residence and other locations. Some MLAs, including Leemarose Martin, have openly indicated that discussions are underway.
This potential support could come through formal alliance, issue-based backing, or even defections, giving TVK the numbers it needs. However, it threatens to split the AIADMK vertically. Party chief Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) has firmly stated that AIADMK will not support TVK, citing ideological differences — particularly TVK’s emphasis on a secular front, which clashes with AIADMK’s traditional ties to the BJP. Senior leaders like K.P. Munusamy have echoed this stand.
The internal pressure on EPS is mounting, with rebel voices within the party gaining visibility in the post-poll scenario.
Swearing-In on Hold
Vijay has already staked claim to form the government by meeting the Governor. However, the swearing-in ceremony, speculated to be held at Nehru Stadium on May 7, remains uncertain. Sources indicate the Governor is seeking concrete proof of majority support before proceeding.
High-level negotiations are expected to intensify over the next 48 hours. Congress has pledged full support, with expectations of cabinet berths, while talks with smaller parties continue. DMK allies such as IUML have so far stayed away.
Vijay holds two seats personally and will need to vacate one, further tightening the arithmetic for any confidence vote.
What Lies Ahead
The coming days will be critical. If sufficient AIADMK MLAs break ranks, TVK could form a stable government with external support. If not, the state may head toward alternative alignments or even fresh political realignments.
This fluid post-poll situation underscores the challenges of coalition politics in Tamil Nadu, where debutant TVK has momentum but must navigate complex alliances and internal rivalries to convert its electoral success into governance. Updates from Chennai are expected to shape the final outcome soon.
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