Chennai: As the results for the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections are being declared, and based on the situation as of 3:00 PM, the TVK is leading
in 106 constituencies, a tally that includes three seats already won. Meanwhile, the DMK is leading in 72 constituencies, and the AIADMK is ahead in 56 seats.
Alliance breakdown
The DMK alliance comprises parties such as the Congress, VCK, and the two Communist parties. The AIADMK alliance includes the BJP and the PMK, among others. The TVK contested the election independently, fielding candidates in all 234 constituencies. However, the nomination papers of the TVK candidate for the Edappadi constituency—held by AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi Palaniswami—were rejected. Following this, Vijay extended his support to an independent candidate from the Vijay Fan Club who chose to contest in that specific constituency.
Pre-Poll predictions
Post-election exit polls saw most agencies predicting that the DMK would return to power; a few agencies predicted an AIADMK victory; and only one agency—My Axis India—predicted that the TVK would form the government. Subsequently, TVK leader Vijay engaged in various activities, ranging from a spiritual pilgrimage to consultations with his candidates. Reports emerged that during a consultative meeting held on the 30th, Vijay had instructed all victorious TVK candidates to report immediately to the party’s Panaiyur office.
What happens if no party secures absolute majority?
In a Tamil Nadu Assembly comprising 234 constituencies, the party that secures victory in 118 seats will be able to form the government with an absolute majority. As of the current moment (3:00 PM), the TVK is leading in 106 seats.
If no single party or alliance manages to secure the required 118 constituencies, the party that has won the highest number of seats may approach the Governor to stake its claim to form the government. The Governor would then invite the single largest party to form the government.
Once a government is formed, the party must demonstrate its majority within a minimum of 15 days or within a timeframe stipulated by the Governor. Should it fail to do so, the Governor will dismiss the government and invite the next-largest party to form the administration. If that party successfully demonstrates its majority, it may proceed to form the government.
If a situation arises where no party is able to form a government, President’s Rule will be imposed under Article 356 of the Constitution. Subsequently, fresh elections will be held.
