TN govt formation: CPI, CPM likely to back Vijay’s TVK as numbers near majority mark
Support from the Left parties could take Vijay-led TVK close to the majority mark, with all eyes now on VCK’s decision amid intense political negotiations in Chennai
In a significant political development in Tamil Nadu, the Left parties, CPI and CPM, are likely to extend support to actor-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), top sources in the Left camp told The Federal on Friday (May 8).
The move could bring Vijay within touching distance of the majority mark as intense behind-the-scenes negotiations continue over government formation in the state.
VCK stance now crucial
According to sources, Vijay currently has the backing of around 108 MLAs, while the majority mark stands at 118 in the Assembly. With the Congress already extending support, the tally is estimated to have risen to around 113. If the CPI and CPM formally back TVK, the numbers could go up to 117, just one short of the magic figure.
Attention is now turning to VCK chief Thol. Thirumavalavan and the stand his party is likely to take in the coming hours.
Top Left leaders indicated that there was a growing consensus within the secular Opposition space against what they described as attempts by the BJP to “manipulate the situation politically”.
“The BJP is trying to engineer the situation to its advantage. We will not let that happen. We will be taking a positive decision,” Left sources told The Federal.
Support talks gain momentum
Sources said the CPI and CPM were of the view that Vijay, as leader of the alliance staking claim with majority backing, should be invited by Governor Rajendra Arlekar to form the government “as per the rule of law and democratic convention”.
When asked about reports that Arlekar was seeking formal letters of support from Vijay before proceeding with the swearing-in ceremony, the source said discussions within party on this is underway.
“The party members will be meeting today and will take a positive decision,” the leader said.
The developments have triggered hectic political activity in Chennai, with the final shape of the anti-BJP bloc expected to become clearer by the end of the day.
