Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah urged that Tamil Nadu Governor should allow TVK chief Vijay a chance to prove his majority in the assembly. This statement came amid rising political tensions in Tamil Nadu concerning government formation.
On Friday, Abdullah criticized Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar’s decision from Thursday that rejected Vijay’s claim to form the government, stating his party lacked sufficient numbers. The Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) currently does not meet the simple majority threshold required to govern in Tamil Nadu’s 234-member assembly, with only 96 seats secured.
Despite receiving support from the Congress party, which has five MLAs, Vijay’s TVK has yet to reach the decisive figure of 118 needed for a majority. Abdullah emphasized that several Supreme Court judgments have consistently insisted on inviting the single largest party to form the government.
“The Supreme Court has cleared the path for such actions. There should be no justification for imposing President’s rule in Tamil Nadu,” Abdullah asserted. He underscored that allowing the largest party to demonstrate its majority is a time-honored practice supported by precedent.
Reflecting on past political scenarios, Abdullah cited former Prime Minister A B Vajpayee’s brief government formation in 1996. During that time, Vajpayee’s government lasted only 13 days before it had to resign due to lack of support. Abdullah noted that, just like in Vajpayee’s case, the decision to allow Vijay to try and prove his majority should not be delayed.
“If we view the Supreme Court judgment, then the Tamil Nadu Lok Bhavan has no grounds to halt this process,” he added, voicing a sentiment that resonates with legal and democratic principles.
By inviting TVK to form a government, Abdullah argues, Vijay would have the opportunity to solidify his party’s position. If he fails to prove his majority, he would be required to resign, following democratic norms.
The political landscape in Tamil Nadu remains charged as parties maneuver for positioning in a scenario that grips the public’s attention amid significant legal and parliamentary implications.
Abdullah concluded that the incumbent Governor’s actions seem counterproductive to the legislative process intended to reflect the people’s will via elected representatives. “Vijay should rightfully be given the opportunity in line with established political customs and judicial affirmations,” he emphasized.
