Chennai: The Indian National Congress is set to become part of the Tamil Nadu government after more than 55 years, following a power-sharing arrangement with Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).
The development comes after the newly formed TVK government reportedly decided to allocate two ministerial berths to Congress following the Assembly election results.
Vijay Sworn In as Chief Minister
TVK chief C. Joseph Vijay took oath as the 13th Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu during a grand swearing-in ceremony held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in Chennai.
Along with Vijay, nine ministers were also sworn in by Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar.
TVK Emerges as Single Largest Party
Contesting its maiden Assembly election under Vijay’s leadership, TVK emerged as the single largest party by winning 108 seats in the 234-member Assembly. However, the party fell short of the majority mark of 118 seats.
To form the government, TVK secured support from Congress and other parties including the CPI, CPI(M), IUML, and VCK.
Congress Returns to State Cabinet
Congress contested 28 seats as part of the Secular Progressive Alliance and managed to win five seats. Despite the limited tally, the party leadership decided to support the TVK-led government after consultations in New Delhi.
The move is politically significant as Congress has remained without representation in the Tamil Nadu Cabinet for decades despite being an alliance partner in several governments.
Discussions Underway on Ministerial Names
Congress leaders said discussions are continuing regarding which MLAs will be inducted into the Cabinet. According to party sources, Melur MLA P. Viswanathan and Killiyoor MLA S. Rajeshkumar are among the frontrunners for the ministerial posts.
Rajeshkumar currently serves as the Congress Legislature Party leader, while Viswanathan attracted attention during the elections after winning from a general constituency as an SC candidate.
Major Political Shift in Tamil Nadu
Congress’ return to the Tamil Nadu Cabinet marks a major political development in the state and signals a new phase in coalition politics under the newly formed TVK government.
