AIADMK Split: Rebel Faction Backs Vijay’s TVK for Tamil Nadu Government

A faction of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), led by CV Shanmugam, has announced its formal support for the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) and its leader, Vijay, in the formation of the Tamil Nadu government.

The announcement marks a significant rupture within the AIADMK, as a rebel bloc of 30 MLAs has emerged to back Velumani. This internal division has split the party wide open ahead of a crucial floor test to determine the stability of the new administration.

The dissident faction is expected to join the Vijay-led government today, following the public declaration of support for the TVK. This move follows a period of intense political instability and shifting alignments within the state’s legislative landscape.

The collapse of the AIADMK’s internal cohesion was further precipitated by the failure of backchannel discussions regarding a potential alliance with the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK). Leaders within the rebel camp have since provided explanations for why those negotiations with the DMK ultimately failed, leading to the current alignment with the TVK.

The party now faces a divided legislature, with the Shanmugam-led faction and the group of MLAs supporting Velumani challenging the existing party hierarchy. The situation remains fluid as the state prepares for the scheduled floor test.