Informed Stalin of move, says VCK's Thirumavalavan

Congress, CPI and CPM had already backed TVK, taking the Vijay-led party's tally from 107 to 116 by Friday night. With VCK and IUML joining in, the tally rose to 120.

TVK functionary Aadhav Arjuna received VCK's support letter from Thol Thirumavalavan on Saturday evening following uncertainty through the day.

IUML national president Khader Mohideen handed over his party's letter to TVK's K A Sengottaiyan and Arunraj.

Thirumavalavan said the decision was conveyed to DMK chief M K Stalin, who responded positively.



TVK earlier made two unsuccessful attempts to secure IUML's support, with the party initially refusing because of its long-standing ties with DMK. A final push on Saturday brought IUML on board. The party's high-level committee resolved that helping establish a democratic govt is a vital democratic duty to prevent political instability in the state.

"The expectations of the general public, and particularly the Muslim community, are for the establishment of a democratic govt. This decision is taken to preserve the traditions of Tamil Nadu and avoid the unwelcome prospect of President's Rule," the party said. IUML emphasised that it has been a long-standing partner of DMK and would continue its alliance with the DMK-headed bloc.