CM Vijay meets alliance partners for first time ahead of by-elections and local body polls
Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) convened its first formal meeting with its alliance partners on Wednesday to discuss preparations for the upcoming Assembly by-elections and local body elections.
The meeting was led by Chief Minister and TVK founder Vijay and attended by representatives of the Congress, Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) and Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MDMK), all of which are providing outside support to the government.
Among those present were TNCC president and MP B Manickam Tagore, senior Congress leader P Chidambaram, VCK chief Thol Thirumavalavan, MDMK leader Vaiko, IUML president K.M. Mohideen, along with senior TVK leaders and ministers.
Leaders of the Left parties did not attend the meeting, stating that they were extending only external support to the government.
Sources indicated that discussions focused on ensuring the stability of the coalition government and completing its full five-year term.
Following the meeting, State Minister for Energy Resources and Law C.T.R. Nirmal Kumar said the alliance had unanimously agreed to adopt a formal name for the coalition, with the Chief Minister expected to announce it after consulting alliance leaders.
Congress MP S. Jothimani said the partners shared common ideological positions, particularly on secular values, and described the alliance as united. She added that TVK leadership was receptive to suggestions made during the discussions.
Party sources also indicated that an alliance coordinator is likely to be appointed in the near future.
By-elections to seven Assembly constituencies are expected following Vijay’s resignation from the Tiruchirappalli East seat after retaining the Perambur constituency, as well as the resignations of six AIADMK legislators. The Election Commission is yet to announce the polling schedule.