Chennai: The Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) held a high-stakes meeting of its newly elected MLAs-designate on Thursday evening at Panaiyur to strategise on government formation.

The atmosphere was charged as successful candidates and party office-bearers pressed general secretary 'Bussy' N Anand for a definitive timeline on when the party would assume power.

Despite the electoral success, the TVK currently finds itself in a challenging position regarding the numbers required to govern.

"Many wanted to know from Anand when the TVK will form the government. The leader asked them to be patient as the party chief Vijay was making all the efforts," a party source revealed.

Echoing this sentiment, TVK Theni district president Pandi expressed confidence in the mandate. "The people of Tamil Nadu have given us the mandate to form the government under our leader Vijay. It will definitely happen. Our leader is taking steps," he said.

Strategic coalitions and majority hurdles

The meeting follows an election result where the TVK fell short of a simple majority in the 234-member Tamil Nadu Assembly.

  • TVK Seats: 108
  • Required for Majority: 118
  • External Support: The Congress, with its 5 MLAs, has offered backing to the TVK.

Even with Congress support, the alliance remains shy of the 118-seat mark. In addition, party chief Vijay, who won from two separate constituencies, must vacate one seat and retain the other, further focusing the party's attention on legislative technicalities.

While many supporters had anticipated a swearing-in ceremony as early as Thursday, the delay has caused a sense of unease among the rank and file. The leadership continues to engage in deliberations to bridge the gap and secure the necessary support to install Vijay as the next Chief Minister.

PTI