Congress extends full support to Vijay's TVK with a condition
What's the story
The Indian National Congress said it has decided to extend its full support to actor Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) in forming the next government in Tamil Nadu. The decision was announced by Girish Chodankar, the All India Congress Committee (AICC) in-charge for Tamil Nadu. However, this support comes with a condition. "Our support shall be conditional upon the TVK keeping out from this alliance any communal forces that do not believe in the Constitution of India," the statement read.
Seat count
TVK falls short of majority
The TVK won 108 seats in the recent Tamil Nadu assembly elections, falling short of the 118-seat majority. With Congress's support, the party's tally would go up to 113. To cross the 118-majority mark, Vijay has also sought support from other parties like VCK, CPI, and CPM, reports said. If these parties join forces with him, it would take his tally to 119 MLAs, one above the majority mark.
Governance pledge
Congress lays down conditions for alliance
The Congress has emphasized that its alliance with the TVK is based on mutual respect and shared responsibility. It said the alliance is not only for government formation but also for future elections at local bodies, Lok Sabha, and Rajya Sabha levels. "Vijay and Rahul Gandhi jointly pledge to respect this historic verdict of the people of Tamil Nadu for a secular and progressive government and to fulfill the dreams and promises of the people-especially the youth," the statement added.
Election outcome
Bypoll likely in Trichy East constituency
In the recent state elections, the TVK ended the 62-year duopoly of Dravidian parties DMK and AIADMK. The DMK was reduced to 59 seats, while the AIADMK won 47 seats. Vijay contested from two constituencies, Trichy East and Perambur, and won both. He is likely to retain his seat in Perambur, which could lead to a bypoll in Trichy East if he vacates it. Vijay is expected to take oath as the new Chief Minister on May 7.