New Delhi: In a move that could redefine the power dynamics of Tamil Nadu, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay has formally reached out to the Indian National Congress (INC) leadership seeking support to form the government. The request, made in a letter to AICC General Secretary K C Venugopal, comes as TVK emerges as the single largest party with 108 seats, just 12 short of the majority mark.

High Command leaves decision to State unit

Speaking in the capital, Congress in-charge for Tamil Nadu, Girish Chodankar, confirmed that the central leadership has provided "guidance" on the matter but has empowered the state unit to take the final call.

"The TNCC Political Affairs Committee will meet tomorrow to discuss and take a decision," Chodankar stated. "Whatever decision the TNCC takes, the AICC will accept that."
 

Vow to keep BJP and ‘proxies’ out

K C Venugopal echoed the party’s cautious but strategic stance, emphasising that any decision would be rooted in secularism. He asserted that the Congress is "determined not to have the BJP and proxies run the Government of Tamil Nadu in any manner”, suggesting a potential inclination toward supporting Vijay to ensure a secular administration.

The numbers game

While TVK is the frontrunner, the road to the Fort St George remains complex. With 5 MLAs, the Congress’s support alone is mathematically insufficient to bridge the 12-seat gap. However, a nod from the Congress is expected to influence other smaller parties and Independent candidates currently stationed in Mamallapuram, where TVK has reportedly moved its legislators to prevent horse-trading.

Decision expected on Wednesday

All eyes are now on the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC) meeting scheduled for Wednesday. Their resolution will be forwarded to the high command for a final seal of approval, potentially clearing the way for Vijay’s swearing-in, which sources suggest could take place as early as May 7 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium.

(With ANI inputs)