Vijay Has Sought Congress Support To Form Government: KC Venugopal

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Key points generated by AI, verified by newsroom

• Congress likely to back TVK; government formation underway.
• TVK falls 10 seats short of required majority.

The Congress is set to announce its support for Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), which falls short of 10 seats to mark the majority and form the government in Tamil Nadu, according to sources. Congress leader KC Venugopal on Tuesday said that TVK chief and actor Vijay has sought Congress’ party’s support to form a new government in Tamil Nadu.

He also said that the INC is clear that the mandate in Tamil Nadu is for a secular government, committed to protecting the constitution in letter and spirit.

“The INC is determined not to have the BJP and proxies run the Govt of Tamil Nadu in any manner…Accordingly, the Congress leadership has directed the TNCC to take a final decision on Vijay’s request, keeping in view the sentiments of the state reflected in the electoral verdict.,” he said while speaking to reporters.

The development comes amid ongoing efforts to form the government in Tamil Nadu following a fractured mandate, with TVK emerging as the single-largest party but falling short of a majority.

Majority Mark And Seat Shortfall

In the 234-member Assembly, a party requires 118 seats for a clear majority. With 108 seats, TVK is still 10 short of the mark. Additionally, Vijay has won from two constituencies, Perambur and Tiruchi East, and will have to vacate one, reducing the party’s tally further.

Moreover, once the government is formed, one lergislator will be appointed as Speaker, who does not vote under normal circumstances, effectively lowering the party’s strength in the House. Taking these factors into account, TVK will need the support of at least 12 additional MLAs to prove its majority.

Will Congress Support Enough For TVK?

Currently, TVK have 108 seats and need 10 more seats. If Congress joined hnds with TVK to form a government, but with only 5 seats then they cannot provide enough support alone. TVK requires support from other parties like the Left and PMK to cross the 118-seat majority.

Governor’s Role In Govt Formation

Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Arlekar is expected to soon initiate the government formation process. He may invite Vijay to stake claim and prove majority, or ask for letters of support. If TVK fails to demonstrate majority, the Governor could offer the opportunity to the second-largest party, DMK. In case no party succeeds in forming a government, the state may come under President’s Rule, followed by fresh elections within six months.