End of stalemate: VCK support paves way for Vijay to stake claim

CHENNAI: The obstacles facing the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) in forming a government are clearing. The Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) has officially handed over a letter of support to the TVK, pledging the backing of its two MLAs. With this development, the TVK has secured the support of 118 members, reaching the required simple majority for government formation.
Aadhav Arjuna, TVK Deputy Secretary and former VCK leader, confirmed the receipt of the letter to the media. Following VCK's lead, the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) has also extended its support to the TVK.

The AIADMK has reportedly stepped back from its efforts to form a government. After bringing back party MLAs who were staying in Puducherry, General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami took to social media to offer "best wishes to the party forming the government." Tamil Nadu political circles view this as a definitive signal of the AIADMK’s withdrawal from the power struggle.

The shift in stance came after Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge held a telephonic discussion with VCK President Thol. Thirumavalavan. Kharge reportedly advised the VCK, a constituent of the "INDIA" bloc, to support the TVK. The official letter of support followed shortly after this high-level intervention.

TVK chief Vijay is expected to visit the VCK office in Ashok Nagar today. Security has been significantly tightened in the area. Sources suggest that a meeting with the Governor to stake a claim for government formation is likely to happen later today.
Reflecting the mood of the alliance, VCK MLA-elect Vanni Arasu posted on social media:
"Even if you try to marginalise us, alienate us, we ourselves will decide that we are the centre!"
Reports also indicate that an agreement has been reached to induct VCK representatives into the new Cabinet.