Over 15 AIADMK MLAs moved to Puducherry resort

08-May-2026

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Amid uncertainty in Tamil Nadu's government formation, over 15 AIADMK MLAs were relocated to a resort in Puducherry to prevent defections. Senior AIADMK leaders coordinated the move as internal divisions arose, with some MLAs considering support for Vijays Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), the largest party but short of a majority. 

Meanwhile, the DMK engaged in unusual backchannel talks with AIADMK. TVK allied with Congress and moved its MLAs to resorts. Smaller parties and alliances remain crucial as political negotiations continue intensely.

As Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) scrambles to secure allies and form a government in Tamil Nadu, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has opened backchannel talks with its long-time rival, the AIADMK, sources told India Today TV, in a rare move between two parties that have traditionally defined the state’s political rivalry.

AIADMK sources confirmed that discussions have taken place, though there was no official word yet on any breakthrough. The big question now is whether the DMK is willing to come on board in what would be an unprecedented shift in Tamil Nadu's politics. The DMK got 59 seats, while the AIADMK managed 47 in the April 23 Assembly polls.

Even if the DMK and AIADMK join hands, their combined 106 MLAs would still fall short of enough numbers to govern. The majority mark is 118. So, both parties would need smaller parties for support if the reported alliance talks materialise.