Chennai: Vijay moved a step closer to becoming the next Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu on Saturday after securing the crucial support required to form a government following a dramatic post-poll political battle.

The Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam chief met Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar for the 4th time in Chennai after his party crossed the majority mark in the 234-member Assembly.

The breakthrough came after the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi formally extended support to TVK. VCK president Thol. Thirumavalavan handed over the party’s official letter of support to Aadhav Arjuna, confirming the backing of the party’s two MLAs.

The support has effectively cleared the path for the formation of a TVK-led coalition government in the state.

TVK, which made a sensational electoral debut by winning 108 seats in the Assembly election, had already secured backing from the Indian National Congress, Communist Party of India and Communist Party of India (Marxist).

With VCK’s support, the alliance tally has now risen to 119 seats, one above the majority mark of 118.

Governor has given Vijay the go-ahead to proceed with government formation after reviewing the letters of support submitted by allied parties.

Swearing-in of Council of Ministers to be led by Vijay will be held in Chennai on Sunday at 10 AM at Lok Bhavan.