AIADMK Moves MLAs to Puducherry Resort Amid Tamil Nadu Government Formation Uncertainty

Chennai, May 2026 : Political uncertainty in Tamil Nadu intensified on Wednesday after the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam reportedly shifted its newly elected MLAs to neighbouring Puducherry and housed them in a luxury resort amid fears of possible poaching attempts by rival political camps.

The dramatic development comes as hectic negotiations continue in the wake of a fractured mandate in the recently concluded Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. The AIADMK, which secured 47 seats in the 234-member Assembly, is said to be taking precautionary measures to ensure unity among its legislators during the ongoing political deadlock.

At the centre of the uncertainty is C. Joseph Vijay, whose party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), emerged as the single largest party with 108 seats. Despite its impressive debut performance, TVK remains short of the majority mark required to form the government.

The Indian National Congress has extended support to TVK, taking the alliance tally to 112 MLAs. However, the coalition still falls short of the crucial 118-seat majority needed in the Assembly.

According to political sources, Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar has not yet invited Vijay to form the government as he has not demonstrated the required majority support. This has triggered intense backroom negotiations among various political parties as they explore possible alliances and power-sharing arrangements.

Meanwhile, speculation has grown over the AIADMK’s efforts to explore the possibility of forming a government with outside support from the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam. Though no formal announcement has been made, reports suggest that senior leaders from both parties have held consultations amid the evolving political situation.

Sources close to the AIADMK indicated that the party has ruled out extending support to Vijay-led TVK under any circumstances. Party strategists are reportedly focused on preserving their legislative strength while discussions continue over alternative government formation options.

Political circles have also been abuzz with allegations that rival camps attempted to lure AIADMK legislators amid the uncertainty. Fearing possible defections, the party leadership is believed to have taken the decision to relocate its MLAs to Puducherry to prevent any breakaway moves and maintain cohesion within the ranks.

The rapidly changing political developments have added fresh suspense to Tamil Nadu politics, with no clear resolution yet in sight. While TVK continues its efforts to gather additional support, speculation surrounding a possible AIADMK-DMK understanding has further fuelled political excitement across the state.

As negotiations intensify behind closed doors, all eyes remain on the Governor’s next move and whether any political formation will be able to secure the numbers needed to form the next government in Tamil Nadu.