Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) on Saturday extended unconditional support to C Joseph Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). This has likely cleared the last hurdle in the party’s attempt to form the government in Tamil Nadu.
In letters addressed to Governor Rajendra Arlikar, both VCK president Thul Thirumavalavan and legislative party leader Vani Arasu reiterated the support of two MLAs in the party to Vijay’s bid to form the government.
“For the sake of stable and democratic governance of the people of Tamil Nadu,” the VCK said it extends “unconditional support” to TVK.
The letter signed by Vani Arasu said the support was extended “under the instructions of our party president Thul. Thirumavalavan” and asked the governor to “on record my unconditional support”.
In a separate letter, Thirumavalavan also expressed his support on behalf of two party members and asked the Governor to “kindly place on record our unconditional support”.
Senior TVK leader Adhav Arjuna declared “victory” after displaying messages from the VCK offering support to make Vijay the next chief minister.
IUML also provides support for TVK
The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) has expanded its support for TVK, taking the alliance to 120.
The announcement comes after three days of intense political negotiations, uncertainty and mixed signals about the VCK’s position. With two VCK MLAs now supporting TVK, Vijay’s alliance is expected to cross the majority mark in the 234-member Assembly.
VCK is the key player in the post-election numbers battle after TVK failed to reach the halfway mark despite support from Congress, CPI and CPM.
The delay in forming the government led to multiple rounds of meetings between Vijay and the Governor, who reportedly asked for written proof of majority support before inviting TVK to form the government.
The development comes amid political activity in Chennai, where Governor Rajendra Arlikar, who is also holding additional charge of Kerala, is scheduled to head to Kerala later in the day, according to sources.
