DMK, AIADMK in backchannel talks as Vijay struggles for majority in Tamil Nadu

As actor-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam scrambles to gather support and stake claim to form the government in Tamil Nadu, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam has reportedly initiated backchannel talks with its long-time rival, the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, in what could mark a dramatic shift in the state’s political landscape.

Sources told India Today TV that preliminary discussions have taken place between the two Dravidian giants, though neither side has officially confirmed any breakthrough. The key question remains whether the DMK is prepared to support such an arrangement — an unprecedented move given the decades-old rivalry that has shaped Tamil Nadu politics.

The DMK secured 59 seats in the April 23 Assembly elections, while the AIADMK won 47. Even if the two parties were to join hands, their combined tally of 106 MLAs would still fall short of the majority mark of 118 in the 234-member Assembly, meaning support from smaller parties would still be essential.

The rivalry between the two parties dates back to 1972, when M. G. Ramachandran broke away from the DMK after being expelled by then party chief M. Karunanidhi over internal differences and allegations of corruption. The split led to the birth of the AIADMK and set the stage for one of India’s most enduring political rivalries.

Vijay stakes claim, but falls short

In a dramatic development earlier in the day, Vijay met Tamil Nadu Governor R. N. Ravi to stake claim to form the government. However, sources said he was asked to return with proof of support from at least 118 MLAs after reportedly submitting letters of backing from only 112 legislators.

Though the TVK has the support of the Congress, which has five MLAs, Vijay is said to have conveyed this verbally and requested additional time to consolidate numbers.

The TVK, contesting its maiden Assembly election, delivered a stunning performance by winning 108 seats but remains 10 short of the majority mark.

The Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi, seen as a potential kingmaker, has postponed its scheduled meeting on Thursday to decide its position amid fast-changing political developments.

The Left parties — Communist Party of India (Marxist) and Communist Party of India — have also deferred their decision until May 8 and are yet to formally announce support.

Both the Left parties and the VCK are part of the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance, and sources indicate the DMK remains confident they will not shift allegiance.

The uncertainty has deepened after the Indian Union Muslim League and Left parties earlier declined TVK’s outreach, while reports of DMK-AIADMK backchannel talks appear to have prompted smaller parties to adopt a wait-and-watch approach.