Absence during a crucial vote
Two MLAs of the MDMK, a party in the DMK-led alliance, did not attend the Tamil Nadu Assembly during the trust vote on the TVK government. Their absence has triggered political criticism and questions over whether the party is signalling indirect support to TVK.
Trust vote and walkout by allies
Following the Governor’s direction to prove majority, the trust vote was held and the TVK government won with the support of 144 MLAs. In contrast, 58 MLAs aligned with the DMK front—including members of parties that contested under the DMK’s “Rising Sun” symbol—stayed away by staging a walkout.
Vaiko’s explanation questioned
Unlike the walkout, the two MDMK MLAs were marked absent. MDMK general secretary Vaiko reportedly said they missed the vote because they were attending a high-level party meeting, an explanation that drew criticism as the trust vote is considered a key legislative event.
DMK camp alleges breach of whip
DMK functionaries were quoted as saying that since the MDMK won the two seats by contesting under the DMK symbol, it should have followed the alliance line and the party whip. They also pointed to reports that TVK leader Vijay met Vaiko at his residence a day before the vote and sought MDMK support, adding to speculation that the MDMK may be leaning toward TVK ahead of upcoming elections.
