In a significant political development in Tamil Nadu, the Indian National Congress (INC) has officially extended its support to Thiru Vijay's Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) to form the state government. This move marks a notable departure from the Congress party's previous alliance with the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) during the recent elections.
Late-Night Decision Paves Way for New Alliance
The crucial decision was finalized during an urgent late-night meeting of the Tamil Nadu Congress's Political Affairs Committee. Convened via Zoom by AICC in-charge for Tamil Nadu affairs, Girish Chodankar, the committee unanimously resolved to support Vijay. Senior members, including Rahul Gandhi, had earlier discussed the post-election scenario at Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge's residence in New Delhi.
Congress General Secretary (Organisation) K. C. Venugopal affirmed the party's stance, stating, "The INC is clear that the mandate in Tamil Nadu is for a secular government that is committed to protecting the Constitution in letter and spirit. The INC is determined not to have the BJP and its proxies run the Government of Tamil Nadu in any manner."
TVK Seeks Majority After Election Results
The Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam emerged as the single largest party in the 234-member Assembly, securing 108 seats. However, this tally falls short of the 118 seats required for a simple majority. With the Congress contributing five seats, and potential support from other parties like the Pattali Makkal Katchi (four seats), CPI (two seats), and CPI(M) (two seats), Vijay's TVK aims to cross the halfway mark.
The election results saw the outgoing DMK secure 59 seats, while the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) won 47. Smaller parties like the BJP, Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK), and Amma Makkal Munnettra Kazagam (AMMK) each won one seat, and VCK secured two.
DMK Criticizes Congress's "Backstabbing"
The Congress's decision to back TVK has drawn sharp criticism from its former ally, the DMK. DMK spokesperson Saravanan Anadurai voiced strong disapproval, stating, "The Congress party has decided to ally with the TVK, pledging their support to the party. I think they have backstabbed... They have backstabbed the people of Tamil Nadu. They've backstabbed the mandate given by the people of Tamil Nadu."
This political realignment reshapes the landscape of Tamil Nadu politics, setting the stage for a new government formation with unexpected alliances.