Governor asks Vijay to prove majority before swearing-in
Governor Rajendra Arlekar has not accepted Vijay’s claim to form the Tamil Nadu government, citing that the TVK-Congress bloc’s 113-seat tally is still shy of the 118-seat majority.
Under Article 163, the Governor can exercise discretion in a hung assembly to ensure the Chief Minister-designate can command the House’s confidence.
He has asked for documentary proof, such as signed support letters, and may order a floor test if convinced to appoint Vijay.
Vijay’s win in two constituencies means TVK’s effective strength will drop to 107 once he vacates one seat, making Congress’s five seats crucial but still insufficient.
The alliance needs five more MLAs, possibly from smaller parties like PMK or VCK, to reach the majority. The Governor’s scrutiny underscores the constitutional emphasis on stability before inviting a government to form.
Congress has formally backed TVK, drawing criticism from DMK leaders who see it as undermining the INDIA bloc.
Left parties and IUML have ruled out supporting Vijay, while AIADMK has publicly declined alliance overtures despite reported approaches.
VCK remains a potential kingmaker with its two seats, but its decision is pending, adding uncertainty to the coalition arithmetic.
Similar to Karnataka 2018, where a minority BJP government lasted just three days, the Governor may delay inviting any party until a stable majority is evident.
If no bloc can secure 118 seats, the Governor could recommend President’s Rule under Article 356, though this is a last resort.
The current standoff is heightened by TVK’s status as a disruptive newcomer that has ended decades of Dravidian party dominance.