Despite all the uncertainty over the Cabinet formation in Tamil Nadu after TVK failed to clear an absolute majority, speculations are rife about who will manage to get a berth in the new government.
Just after the trend became clear, reports emerged that Vijay was in a huddle with his political advisor, John Arogyaswamy, who is instrumental in devising political strategies. Arogyaswamy is also said to be in the forefront of the discussions being held with PMK, and other parties, including the Congress and Left parties.
Though the TVK still needs over 11 more MLAs to clear the majority mark, the names of big leaders in TVK who could land the ministerial berth are already doing the rounds.
According to local media reports, Vijay Cabinet is likely to have a mix of experienced leaders and loyal administrators. The prominent among them is Bussy Anand, a former Pudhucherry legislator and TVK’s general secretary. He is also the right-hand man of Vijay. Speculations are that he could be allocated a pivotal portfolio within the Cabinet. Given his instrumental role in strengthening the party’s organisational structure, he is likely to be entrusted with key departments such as Home Affairs or Public Works.
Sengottaiyan is another senior and experienced leader who left the AIADMK to join the TDP. He is likely to get a prominent berth in the Cabinet, and it could even be education.
Aadhav Arjuna, a skilled election strategist, will get a prominent portfolio like Finance. Other names doing the rounds include CDR Nirmal Kumar, Arun Raj, Sathyabama, Dr. Prabhu, Madurai Kallanai, actor Srinath, Farwas, Tahira, Rajmohan, ECR Saravanan, and Vijay Saravanan.
Meanwhile, Vijay has sent a letter to the Governor claiming the right to form the government. He stated that he is ready to provide a stable government in the interest of Tamil Nadu. He informed the governor that the party had secured 108 seats, and being the single largest party, it should be invited to form the government. "We request an opportunity to demonstrate our majority," Vijay had said in an e-mail communication to Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, a source in the TVK said.
Tamil Nadu's acting Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar will return to Chennai today. The Governor is said to be holding consultations with senior officials and legal experts regarding Vijay's letter.