TVK Chief Vijay Set for Third Meeting with Tamil Nadu Governor to Stake Claim for Government Formation

Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president and actor-turned-politician C. Joseph Vijay is expected to meet Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar at Raj Bhavan this evening for the third time in three days, as efforts to form the next state government enter a critical phase following the 2026 Assembly elections.

TVK emerged as the single-largest party in the polls with 108 seats in the 234-member Assembly, falling short of the 118-mark required for a simple majority. The party has received support from the Congress, which won five seats, but the combined strength remains below the threshold needed to establish a clear majority without additional backing.

This evening's meeting comes amid ongoing uncertainty, with TVK leaders expressing confidence in proving their numbers on the floor of the House if invited to form the government. Party workers and Congress supporters have held protests near Raj Bhavan demanding that the Governor invite Vijay to take oath as Chief Minister.


Previous Visits: 

May 6, 2026 : Vijay arrived at Raj Bhavan shortly after receiving an invitation from the Governor's office. Accompanied by senior TVK leaders, he formally staked his claim to form the government. He submitted a letter of support from the Congress and a list of MLAs backing the TVK-led formation. The meeting focused on presenting the party's position as the largest single party and outlining its readiness to demonstrate majority support through a floor test if required. However, the Governor sought further clarification on the exact numbers and written commitments.

May 7, 2026 : Just 24 hours later, Vijay returned to Raj Bhavan for detailed discussions lasting around 45 minutes. According to an official statement from the Raj Bhavan, Governor Arlekar informed Vijay that the "requisite majority support" in the Legislative Assembly had not yet been established. The Governor reportedly asked for concrete proof, including signatures from at least 118 MLAs, before proceeding with any invitation to form the government. Vijay reiterated his party's willingness to face a floor test and held follow-up consultations with legal advisors and party colleagues later that day.

TVK has been actively engaging with smaller parties and independents in recent hours to bridge the gap. Meanwhile, outgoing Chief Minister M.K. Stalin of the DMK has indicated that his party would observe the new government's functioning without immediate disruption for the initial period. No final decision on inviting Vijay or calling for a floor test has been announced yet, keeping the political suspense alive in Tamil Nadu. Further developments are awaited following this evening's expected meeting.