Vijay’s victory triggers turmoil within AIADMK as some MLAs reportedly favour support to TVK

The formation of the Vijay-led Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government in Tamil Nadu has reportedly triggered internal unease within the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), as sections of party leaders and legislators reassess the party’s future after the 2026 Assembly election.

According to reports, some AIADMK leaders have begun questioning the leadership of party general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) after the party failed to stop TVK’s rapid rise in the state.

The discussions reportedly intensified after Vijay was sworn in as Chief Minister, marking a major political shift in Tamil Nadu and weakening the decades-old dominance of the DMK-AIADMK political structure.

A section of AIADMK MLAs and district-level leaders believes the party needs to rethink its political strategy in the changing landscape created by Vijay’s emergence. Some leaders are reportedly of the view that the AIADMK’s current leadership failed to effectively counter TVK’s appeal among younger voters and sections of traditional anti-DMK voters.

Reports also suggested that a few AIADMK legislators are informally favouring closer engagement with Vijay’s government, although the party has not officially indicated any support to the ruling TVK administration.

The AIADMK leadership has publicly denied speculation regarding internal rebellion or possible alignment with TVK. Senior leaders have maintained that the party will function as an independent opposition force despite the changing political environment in the state.

Vijay’s victory has created fresh pressure on the AIADMK because TVK has emerged as a major alternative within the same opposition space that the AIADMK traditionally occupied against the DMK.

The election outcome is also being viewed as another setback for the AIADMK’s revival efforts after the death of former Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa. The party has faced repeated electoral challenges in recent years while also dealing with internal factional disputes and leadership questions.

Vijay’s victory has significantly altered Tamil Nadu’s political dynamics, with TVK now positioned as the state’s ruling force after breaking the long-standing dominance of the two major Dravidian parties.

While reports of dissatisfaction within AIADMK continue to surface, there has been no official announcement regarding leadership change, defections or organisational restructuring within the party so far.