Chennai: Tamil Nadu politics appears headed for a dramatic realignment after actor-turned-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) delivered a stunning electoral breakthrough in the 2026 Assembly elections, emerging as the single largest party but falling just short of a majority.
TVK Shatters DMK-AIADMK Dominance
In a result that has upended decades of bipolar politics dominated by the DMK and AIADMK, TVK won 108 seats in the 234-member Assembly, narrowly missing the majority mark of 118.
The massive debut performance has positioned Vijay at the centre of government formation talks and signalled the arrival of a powerful new force in Tamil Nadu politics.
TVK Reaches Out to Congress, Left Parties
With numbers falling short, TVK has reportedly opened channels with key allies of the DMK, including the Indian National Congress, CPI(M), CPI and Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), in an effort to secure outside support and cross the majority threshold.
According to reports,
- Congress : – 5 seats,
- CPI(M) : – 2 seats
- CPI : – 2 seats
- VCK : – 2 seats
Congress Offers Conditional Support
The Congress has indicated willingness to back a Vijay-led government, but with conditions. Party leaders reportedly said support would depend on “communal forces” being kept out of the alliance framework.
The development is being viewed as a significant political shift, especially given Congress’ traditional alignment with the DMK in the state.
The President of Tamizhaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), Thiru C Vijay, has formally requested the Indian National Congress (INC) to extend its support for forming a government in Tamil Nadu. The people of Tamil Nadu, especially the youth, have delivered a very clear, strong and… pic.twitter.com/Aig79MoRoE
— Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (@INCTamilNadu) May 6, 2026
DMK, AIADMK Alliances Suffer Major Setback
The ruling DMK suffered a sharp decline, managing to secure only 59 seats in the election. Meanwhile, the AIADMK-BJP alliance failed to regain lost ground and finished with 47 seats.
The verdict has effectively dismantled Tamil Nadu’s traditional political equation and created space for a new power centre led by Vijay.
Vijay Set to Stake Claim
Vijay is expected to meet Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Arlekar soon to formally stake claim to form the government.
The Governor reportedly said Vijay has informed him that he has the necessary support to command a majority in the Assembly.
Swearing-In Likely This Week
Sources indicate that Vijay could take oath as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister as early as Thursday, marking a historic transition from cinema superstar to head of government.
