EPS Congratulates Winners as Tamil Nadu Government Formation Hangs in Balance

Chennai, May 2026 : Amid mounting political uncertainty over who will form the next government in Tamil Nadu, AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami on Saturday congratulated all candidates and parties that secured victory in the 17th Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly election.

In a statement issued here, Palaniswami extended his greetings to the party that would eventually assume office and govern the state. He said he wished the incoming government success in fulfilling the aspirations of the people of Tamil Nadu.

His remarks came at a time when intense political negotiations and behind-the-scenes discussions continue following a fractured mandate in the Assembly elections.

Polling for all 234 constituencies in Tamil Nadu was conducted in a single phase on April 23. The election witnessed a fierce multi-cornered battle involving the DMK alliance, the AIADMK alliance, Naam Tamilar Katchi, and actor Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).

The TVK emerged as the single largest party by winning 108 seats, but remains short of the majority mark required to form the government in the 234-member Assembly. Since the declaration of results, the party has been engaged in efforts to secure support from smaller parties and independent legislators.

The Congress and Left parties have already announced their support to the Vijay-led outfit. However, political attention is now focused on the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), whose support is considered crucial in determining the next government.

VCK president Thol Thirumavalavan is expected to make an official announcement regarding the party’s stand at 4 p.m. on Saturday. Political observers believe the declaration could significantly influence the government formation process and help TVK comfortably cross the majority threshold.

Meanwhile, fresh controversy has added another layer of uncertainty to the post-election developments. AMMK general secretary T.T.V. Dhinakaran lodged a complaint alleging that a fake support letter, purportedly issued in the name of AMMK MLA Kamaraj, had been submitted in favour of TVK.

The allegation has triggered speculation that Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar may closely scrutinise all letters of support before inviting any party to form the government. Political observers said the Governor could even ask supporting MLAs to appear in person to verify their backing amid allegations of horse-trading and forged documents.

With negotiations continuing and political tensions escalating, Tamil Nadu remains in suspense as the race to form the next government enters a critical phase.