Tamil Nadu Politics: AIADMK Moves Legislators to Resort Amid Uncertainty

In the wake of the Tamil Nadu assembly elections, the AIADMK has relocated its legislators to a luxury resort in Puducherry to prevent poaching amid political uncertainty. With no party achieving a clear majority, the situation has led to intense negotiations and potential alliances, including unexpected back-channel talks with the DMK. As various factions within the AIADMK consider supporting rival parties, the race for government formation remains highly competitive. This article delves into the intricate dynamics of Tamil Nadu's political landscape, highlighting the strategies employed by parties to secure a majority.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 7, 2026, 09:51 IST

Political Maneuvering in Tamil Nadu

The political landscape in Tamil Nadu has once again taken a familiar turn. Following the assembly election results, where no party secured a clear majority, the state has entered a phase of 'resort politics.' To mitigate fears of poaching and the uncertainty surrounding government formation, the AIADMK has relocated over 19 of its legislators to a luxury resort in the neighboring state of Puducherry.

AIADMK's Strategic Move

According to sources, senior AIADMK leader and Rajya Sabha MP C.V. Shanmugam, who is closely associated with party chief Edappadi K. Palaniswami, has booked more than 20 rooms at 'The Shore Trishvam' resort. Arrangements for these bookings have been finalized until Thursday, with several legislators already arriving in Puducherry and others en route. The party aims to keep its members united during this critical phase of negotiations and political turmoil regarding government formation. As the situation clarifies, additional rooms may be reserved in the coming days.

Legislators Gathered at the Resort

Reportedly, the AIADMK legislators currently staying at the resort include Balakrishna Reddy (Hosur), actress Jayasudha (Arani), A.P. Jayashankaran (Athur), S.M. Sukumar (Arakkonam), O.S. Manian (Vedaranayam), Velu (Chengam), S. Jayakumar (Perundurai), Karuppannan (Bhavani), former minister Vijayabhaskar (Viralimalai), S. Shekhar (Paramathi-Velur), Venkatachalam (Mettur), Maragatham (Madurantakam), Rajasekhar (Cheyyur), Ramachandran (Keelapennathur), Mani (Omalur), Palaniswami (Tirukovilur), Mohan (Panrutti), Rajendran (Neyveli), and Talavai N. Sundaram (Kanyakumari).

Internal Strife and Political Alliances

This development comes amid reports of internal discord within the AIADMK. A faction of legislators is reportedly inclined to support actor Vijay's party, 'Tamilga Vetri Kazhagam' (TVK), which emerged as the largest single party with 108 seats but still falls short of the 118-seat threshold needed to form a government.

Unexpected Back-Channel Talks

Adding an intriguing twist to the political scenario, it has been revealed that the DMK has initiated back-channel discussions with its long-time rival, the AIADMK. This unusual development in Tamil Nadu politics has raised eyebrows. While AIADMK sources have confirmed these discussions, there is still no clarity regarding a potential alliance. The numbers remain close, with the DMK holding 59 seats and the AIADMK 47, making any coalition significant.

TVK's Claim and Legislative Support

Earlier in the day, Vijay met with Governor Rajendra Arlekar to present a claim to form the government but was asked to return with proof of support from 118 legislators. Currently, he reportedly has the backing of 112 legislators, including five from Congress, yet remains short of the majority. After solidifying an alliance with Congress, TVK has paused discussions with the AIADMK but continues talks with other parties.

The Role of Smaller Parties

The involvement of smaller parties, such as the DMK's ally Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), is also crucial, although VCK has canceled its scheduled meeting on Thursday, adding to the uncertainty. Leftist parties, which are also allies of the DMK, will decide on Friday whether to support TVK in forming the government.

Ongoing Political Tensions

Meanwhile, TVK has also sent its legislators to resorts in Mamallapuram to ensure they remain together, highlighting the significance of this political tug-of-war. With legislators gathering at resorts, behind-the-scenes negotiations ongoing, and the majority figure still uncertain, the situation for government formation in Tamil Nadu remains wide open, with all parties vying for the crucial majority.