AIADMK confirms it proposed alliance with DMK to form Tamil Nadu govt

The All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) confirmed on May 12 that it had proposed an alliance with the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) to form Tamil Nadu’s government following the fractured results of the 2026 Assembly Elections, where no party secured the 118-seat majority required. Party leader CV Shanmugam stated that despite historical opposition, AIADMK’s CM candidate Edappadi K Palaniswami (EPS) proposed forming a government with DMK support, but party members rejected the idea, fearing it would dissolve AIADMK’s identity. AIADMK ultimately decided to extend support to Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), which emerged as the largest party with 108 seats, while DMK won 59 and AIADMK secured only 47. TVK formed a government after securing backing from Congress and DMK-allied parties like CPI, CPI(M), and VCK, resolving the post-election deadlock. Shanmugam emphasized that AIADMK’s priority now is to strengthen its own party, as internal unity was prioritized over the alliance. The party elected SP Velumani as its legislative leader and G Hari as deputy leader, signaling a focus on internal consolidation. Velumani stated that party leaders are committed to preventing any split within AIADMK. Meanwhile, TVK’s rise has reignited discussions about the historical split between MGR and Karunanidhi, which led to the formation of AIADMK in 1972. The 2026 elections left Tamil Nadu in a state of confusion, with TVK initially claiming government formation but Governor Arlekar demanding proof of majority. The final alliance between TVK, Congress, and DMK-allied parties resolved the uncertainty, allowing TVK to take charge. AIADMK’s decision to back TVK reflects its strategic shift amid the post-election landscape.