Chidambaram Urges Tamil Nadu Governor to Invite TVK for Government Formation
In a significant political move, P. Chidambaram has urged Tamil Nadu's Governor to invite the Tamilga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) to form the government, citing the party's status as the largest following the assembly elections. He emphasized the importance of parliamentary traditions in such invitations and questioned the governor's role if no party achieves a clear majority. The situation has sparked controversy, with TVK leaders criticizing the governor's decision not to invite their leader, alleging interference from the BJP. This unfolding political drama highlights the complexities of governance in Tamil Nadu.
| May 8, 2026, 14:11 IST
Chidambaram's Call to the Governor
On Friday, senior Congress leader P. Chidambaram appealed to Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar to extend an invitation to the Tamilga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) for forming the government. He emphasized that the party has established itself as the largest party by winning 108 seats in the assembly. Speaking to X, Chidambaram noted that it is a recognized political and parliamentary tradition to invite the leader of the largest party first, referencing Vijay Singh in his remarks.
Political Tradition and Responsibilities
Chidambaram questioned the governor's responsibilities if no political alliance or party secures an outright majority in the assembly elections. He stated that based on the number of elected members, the leader of the largest party should be invited to form the government, highlighting this as a political rule and parliamentary tradition. He pointed out that the assembly, rather than the governor's residence, is the appropriate venue for the party leader to demonstrate their majority, citing a Supreme Court ruling from 1994 (3) SCC 1. He commended Tamil Nadu's political parties for clarifying and emphasizing this rule.
Controversy Surrounding Government Formation
During a meeting in the Lok Sabha on Thursday, Governor Arlekar reportedly informed Vijay that the TVK had not demonstrated the necessary majority for government formation in the Tamil Nadu assembly. According to sources cited by a news agency, the governor requested Vijay to clarify complex numbers and provide details of the legislators supporting the TVK's claims. TVK leaders criticized the decision not to invite Vijay to form the government, accusing Arlekar of obstructing the process at the behest of the BJP and undermining constitutional norms.