Daijiworld Media Network - Chennai

Chennai, May 8: Tamil Nadu’s post-election political drama intensified on Friday as actor Vijay-led Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) warned that all its 108 MLAs would resign if either the DMK or AIADMK attempts to form the government in the state.

The warning comes amid hectic political activity in Chennai following reports of possible backdoor negotiations between the two Dravidian majors to prevent TVK from assuming power despite emerging as the single-largest party in the Assembly.

TVK leaders maintained that the people had delivered a clear mandate in favour of Vijay’s party and insisted that the Governor must invite TVK to form the government first. The party currently holds 108 seats and is short of the majority mark by 10 legislators. Congress has already extended support with its five MLAs, while talks are underway with Left parties and smaller outfits.

However, Governor R.N. Arlekar reportedly declined Vijay’s request to stake claim, stating that TVK had not yet demonstrated majority support. Sources said the Governor asked the party to furnish letters of support from at least 118 MLAs before proceeding further.

A statement issued from Raj Bhavan said the constitutional requirement of majority support had not been established, triggering sharp reactions from several political quarters.

Amid the uncertainty, the DMK convened a crucial meeting and passed resolutions authorising party president M.K. Stalin to take “emergency decisions” in the interest of political stability and to avoid another election in the state. Party sources indicated that discussions were held over various possible political arrangements.

Reports also suggested that a section within the DMK is considering supporting an AIADMK-led government from outside to keep TVK away from power. However, senior leaders are believed to be cautious about public backlash over any alliance involving long-time rivals DMK and AIADMK.

The AIADMK too held discussions with its MLAs and adopted a wait-and-watch strategy. Party chief Edappadi K. Palaniswami reportedly told legislators that there was no understanding with TVK and asked them to remain calm until the political picture becomes clearer.

The Governor’s stand has drawn criticism from opposition parties and TVK’s potential allies. The CPI said constitutional conventions and Supreme Court judgments clearly state that the single-largest party should be invited first to prove its majority on the Assembly floor.

VCK leader Thol Thirumavalavan also criticised the Governor, saying he cannot insist on proof of support before the swearing-in process and must allow the Assembly to decide the majority.

Actor-politician Kamal Haasan and several other leaders have also voiced support for TVK, calling the Governor’s decision undemocratic and against the spirit of the people’s mandate.

With negotiations, political manoeuvring and possible legal action continuing simultaneously, Tamil Nadu remains gripped by intense uncertainty over who will eventually form the next government.v