TVK worker attempts self-immolation over delay in Vijay becoming CM, suffers burns
A TVK worker attempted self-immolation over the delay in Vijay becoming chief minister and suffered burns. The incident highlights the intensity of support around Vijay amid expectations over his political rise.
A 40-year-old TVK worker attempted self-immolation in Tamil Nadu's Tirunelveli on Saturday as he was upset by the prolonged wait to see actor and party leader Vijay as the next Chief Minister of the state. The man, identified as Isakkiyappan, sustained severe burn injuries in the incident and has been admitted to a hospital for treatment.
Around four months ago, he had also pierced both his cheeks with a 16-foot-long lance as a public display of his ambition to see Vijay becoming the CM. His self-immolation attempt came as the TVK engaged in non-stop attempts to form the government in Tamil Nadu.
TAMIL NADU GOVERNMENT FORMATION DRAMA
While the Vijay-led party managed to put on a spectacular show in the recently held Assembly elections by winning 108 seats, it needs 10 more to form the government.
The party has so far secured the support of three parties that contested the polls as allies of the DMK, including the Congress. The grand old party has announced the support of all five of its MLA-elects in Tamil Nadu for the possible formation of a TVK-led government.
Besides the Congress, the TVK had also reached out to CPI, CPI (M), IUML and the VCK – all allied with the DMK originally – for support after the election results were announced.
While Congress and Left parties have responded positively to the call, the IUML has refused to extend any such support. Meanwhile, uncertainty continues to persist over VCK's stand.
On Friday, Vijay met Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar for a third time in three days to stake a claim to form the government.
It was believed that the TVK had finally reached the 118 magic number. However, the political drama took another turn as the Governor sent Vijay back once again. Lok Bhavan sources told India Today that Vijay's numbers were still short of the required majority mark.
The VCK, on Saturday, postponed a crucial press conference where it was set to reveal its stand on the possibility of extending support to TVK.