Tamil Nadu witnessed a major political shake-up on Wednesday as actor-turned-politician Vijay secured a decisive win in a floor test, with 144 MLAs voting in his favour. The result confirmed his position as chief minister following weeks of political uncertainty after last month’s assembly elections.

The trust vote was held after Vijay’s newly formed party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), fell short of a clear majority despite its strong electoral performance. The party had won 108 seats in the 234-member assembly, but required additional support to form the government. The confidence motion was supported by allies including the Congress, Left parties, VCK and IUML, along with independent backing from smaller political groups.

A key development in the vote was the unexpected support from within the opposition ranks. Twenty-four MLAs from the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam reportedly voted in favour of Vijay, defying party leadership instructions issued by senior leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami. Their decision significantly strengthened Vijay’s numbers and exposed deep internal divisions within the AIADMK.

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At the end of the vote, 22 legislators opposed the motion while five abstained. The AIADMK faction loyal to Palaniswami reportedly voted against the government, while other opposition parties either opposed or remained neutral. The split within the AIADMK has intensified speculation about a growing leadership crisis and shifting alliances within one of Tamil Nadu’s two major Dravidian political forces.

Political observers say the developments reflect a broader realignment in Tamil Nadu politics, where TVK’s rapid rise has disrupted the long-standing dominance of both the DMK and AIADMK. The emergence of a film industry figure successfully transitioning into electoral politics has added a new dimension to the state’s competitive political landscape.

Following the results, Vijay described the outcome as a historic mandate, crediting his party’s symbol and campaign momentum for the victory. He also indicated that the new administration would function as a minority government supported by allied parties. Meanwhile, the internal rift within the AIADMK is expected to deepen, with party leadership facing pressure to address dissent and prevent further fragmentation.

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