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DMK rejects AIADMK overtures as TVK stakes claim to Tamil Nadu government
In the wake of a hung Tamil Nadu Assembly, AIADMK reportedly approached DMK for support to form a government, but DMK chose to sit in the Opposition. TVK leader Vijay formally staked a claim to form a government, prompting the Governor to seek proof of support. Congress cut ties with DMK and allied parties weighed in, while AIADMK and DMK leaders publicly clarified their positions.
Why It Matters
The events illustrate the post-election coalition dynamics in Tamil Nadu and the competition to form a government in a hung Assembly, with multiple parties weighing strategic alignments.
Timeline
7 Events
DMK MP Veeraswamy says DMK will function as Opposition; accuses AIADMK of pushing BJP
May 6, 2026
DMK Lok Sabha MP Kalanidhi Veeraswamy said the DMK has decided to function as an Opposition in the state, claiming that the AIADMK is working against TVK by pushing BJP to stop TVK from forming the government, and stated that the DMK would oppose the people’s mandate.
Munusamy rejects TVK-support reports after Palaniswami-led meeting
May 6, 2026
AIADMK deputy general secretary K. P. Munusamy rejected reports that his party would support TVK after a meeting chaired by AIADMK chief Edappadi K. Palaniswami. He provided no explanation for the decision.
Ponnaiyan questions TVK support; asserts BJP alliance
May 5, 2026
Former Finance Minister C. Ponnaiyan stated that AIADMK is an ally of the BJP and that the question of AIADMK supporting TVK should not arise, signaling a clarification of alliance stance.
Leema Rose indicates negotiations between Palaniswami and TVK
May 5, 2026
Leema Rose, newly elected AIADMK legislator from Lalgudi, said negotiations were in progress between AIADMK chief Edappadi K. Palaniswami and TVK over forming a government.
TVK reaches out to DMK allies CPI(M), CPI, and VCK for support
May 5, 2026
DMK allies Communist Party of India (Marxist), Communist Party of India, and Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi each said TVK had reached out to them separately seeking support. Leaders said decisions would be taken after internal party meetings in the coming days.
Congress severs ties with DMK, offers conditional support to TVK
May 5, 2026
The Congress severed its ties with the DMK and offered conditional support to the TVK, stating that Vijay should not seek the BJP or any of its allies' support to form the government.
TVK chief Vijay meets Governor Arlekar; Governor seeks letters of support from 118 MLAs
May 5, 2026
TVK chief Vijay met Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar and staked claim to form the government in the state. The Governor reportedly asked for letters demonstrating support of 118 MLAs, the majority in the 234-member Assembly.