Tamil Nadu politics witnessed a dramatic turn as Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam leader and Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay won the confidence vote in the state Assembly.
The floor test confirmed support for the newly formed TVK government and marked a major political moment in the state.
Vijay secured the trust vote with support from several parties, including the IUML, Congress, VCK, CPI, CPI(M) and a section of AIADMK MLAs.
The vote came after intense political activity, with Vijay holding back-to-back meetings with allies, rivals and key political figures ahead of the Assembly test.
The floor test was closely watched because it was seen as the first major challenge for Vijay’s maiden government in Tamil Nadu.
Vijay Builds Support Before Floor Test
Before facing the confidence vote, Chief Minister Vijay held a series of meetings with political parties and leaders. His discussions included allies as well as political rivals from AIADMK and DMK. He also reportedly met NTK founder Seeman, who has been one of his sharp critics.
The IUML, VCK and Congress extended support to Vijay’s attempt to form and stabilize his first government. Their backing played an important role in helping the TVK-led administration cross the Assembly test.
The result of the floor test has strengthened Vijay’s position and given his government an early boost. However, the political situation remains tense due to developments inside the AIADMK.
AIADMK Faces Internal Trouble
The confidence vote also exposed serious tension within the AIADMK. In what became an uncomfortable political moment for AIADMK chief Edappadi K Palaniswami, around 30 party MLAs reportedly announced support for the Vijay-led government.
The group, led by senior leaders S P Velumani and C Ve Shanmugam, questioned Palaniswami’s leadership after the party’s performance in the Assembly elections.
They also accused him of considering an alliance with the DMK, a claim that added further pressure to the party’s internal crisis.
The move by these MLAs has triggered speculation about a possible split in the AIADMK. Their support for the TVK government could reshape opposition politics in Tamil Nadu and weaken Palaniswami’s hold over the party.
Thirumavalavan Claims DMK and AIADMK Reached Out
Adding another twist to the political developments, VCK chief Thol Thirumavalavan claimed that both the DMK and AIADMK had approached him to become Tamil Nadu chief minister under a possible alliance arrangement.
According to his claim, the proposal was aimed at preventing TVK from coming to power. Thirumavalavan said he rejected the offer.
His statement has added fresh drama to the ongoing political discussion and raised questions about behind-the-scenes negotiations during the government formation process.
Vijay Announces Closure of Over 700 TASMAC Outlets
On his second day as Chief Minister, Vijay made a major policy announcement involving liquor outlets in the state. He announced the closure of more than 700 TASMAC shops located within 500 metres of temples, schools and bus stands.
The decision is expected to draw strong reactions from both supporters and critics. While some may view it as a public welfare measure, others may question its economic and administrative impact.
The announcement also signals that Vijay is trying to move quickly on visible governance decisions after assuming office.
Astrologer Appointment Sparks Political Row
Despite winning the confidence vote, Vijay also faced criticism over the appointment of astrologer Radhan Pandit Vettrivel as Officer on Special Duty to the Chief Minister.
The appointment triggered controversy because Vettrivel is reportedly the astrologer who had predicted a landslide victory for Vijay.
Critics questioned the decision and raised concerns about whether such an appointment was appropriate for a government position.
The issue has now become one of the first controversies of the new TVK administration.
Conclusion
The Tamil Nadu floor test has given Chief Minister Vijay and his TVK government an important early victory. With support from several parties and a section of AIADMK MLAs, Vijay has cleared his first major Assembly challenge.
However, the political drama is far from over. The AIADMK appears to be facing internal strain, Thirumavalavan’s claims have added fresh intrigue, and the astrologer appointment row has created early criticism for the new government.
As Vijay begins his term with bold announcements and political turbulence, Tamil Nadu’s political landscape may continue to shift rapidly.