Jammu and Kashmir CM Advocates for Largest Party to Form Government in Tamil Nadu Elections

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Umar Abdullah has stated that the largest party should be allowed to form the government in Tamil Nadu elections. He emphasized the importance of adhering to Supreme Court directives, which support this stance. Abdullah specifically mentioned actor-turned-politician Vijay, suggesting he should be invited to lead if he can prove a majority in the assembly. Additionally, Abdullah defended his administration against opposition criticism, asserting that all National Conference legislators are united and dismissing claims of internal dissent. He also criticized the BJP's intentions, accusing the opposition of engaging in destabilizing tactics.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 8, 2026, 14:46 IST

Umar Abdullah's Stance on Tamil Nadu Elections

On May 8, the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Umar Abdullah, expressed that the largest party should be granted the opportunity to form the government if elections are held in Tamil Nadu. He emphasized, referencing judicial interpretations, that there should be no room for President's Rule and that the leading party must be allowed to establish the government.

Specifically mentioning actor-turned-politician Vijay, Abdullah stated that if Vijay can demonstrate a majority in the assembly, he should be invited to form the government; otherwise, he would be expected to resign.

Abdullah's Defense Against Opposition Criticism

While addressing journalists, Abdullah remarked that adhering to the Supreme Court's directives should eliminate the possibility of President's Rule. He pointed out that there are numerous instances where the Supreme Court has clearly stated that the largest party should be invited to form the government post-elections. He reiterated that Vijay should be given a chance to lead if he can prove his majority in the assembly.

In response to comments from opposition leader Sunil Sharma regarding the political climate in Jammu and Kashmir, Abdullah robustly defended his administration and criticized the BJP, accusing the opposition of attempting to destabilize the elected government. Addressing Sharma's remark about the potential emergence of an Eknath Shinde within the National Conference, Abdullah dismissed such concerns, asserting that all National Conference legislators are united.

Political Dynamics and BJP's Intentions

He further stated that the BJP's intentions are becoming increasingly clear, suggesting that opposition leaders are eager to assume the chief minister's position. Abdullah remarked, "I would like to tell them: there is no one like Eknath Shinde in the National Conference; our legislators stand with us. The delay in cabinet expansion is not due to fear but because we have not yet received statehood. The opposition leaders and their party are engaging in blackmail politics."