Vijay-VCK deal finalised? EPS's cryptic post adds new twist to power battle

Just as Tamil Nadu’s post-poll deadlock appeared to be entering its decisive phase, a carefully worded message from AIADMK chief Edappadi K Palaniswami triggered a fresh wave of political speculation over whether Vijay has quietly secured enough support to form the next government.

Without naming any party, Palaniswami congratulated the “party forming the government” in Tamil Nadu after the Assembly election results, a remark that immediately set off intense chatter in political circles.

“In the recently concluded 17th Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly election, candidates from various political parties contested and emerged victorious. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the party forming the government in Tamil Nadu,” he posted on X.

TIMING OF EPS MESSAGE SPARKS BUZZ

The post assumes significance because it comes amid a fierce numbers battle in the 234-member Assembly, where Vijay’s TVK emerged as the single-largest party with 107 seats but fell short of the majority mark of 118.

Congress later backed Vijay, while the CPI and CPI(M) also extended support, arguing that preventing President’s Rule and keeping the BJP from indirect influence were key considerations.

The focus has now shifted to the Thol Thirumavalavan-led VCK, whose final stand could determine whether Vijay comfortably crosses the halfway mark.

IS AIADMK READING THE NUMBERS?

Political observers believe Palaniswami’s phrasing may reflect growing confidence within opposition ranks that Vijay has already lined up enough support behind the scenes.

The remark has also intensified speculation about possible backchannel conversations between sections of the anti-DMK camp and TVK as parties attempt to avoid a prolonged constitutional crisis in the state.

Adding to the intrigue, an AIADMK MP had earlier claimed that “my leader will become CM”, fuelling theories that parallel political calculations were underway even as Vijay continued negotiations with smaller parties.

GOVERNOR AWAITS FINAL SHOW OF STRENGTH

The suspense over government formation has stretched into a full-scale political thriller over the past two days, with reports of missing MLAs, bargaining over portfolios and frantic late-night negotiations.

Vijay has already made multiple visits to Raj Bhavan to stake claim before Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, who is understood to have sought formal proof of majority support before inviting any party to form the government.

With the VCK yet to formally announce its stand and smaller parties now holding the balance of power, Tamil Nadu’s dramatic race for Fort St George remains delicately poised.