NDA will form coalition government in Tamil Nadu: Union Minister of State Ramdas Athawale

Union Minister Ramdas Athawale claims NDA will form a coalition government in Tamil Nadu after the upcoming Assembly elections.

Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale on Friday (April 10, 2026) said the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) would form a “coalition government” in Tamil Nadu after the Assembly election.

Responding to queries on whether the AIADMK would form the government on its own or as part of an alliance, he said that though the party was strong, the government would be led by the NDA, similar to the coalition at the Centre.

Recalling the 2014 parliamentary election, he noted that the BJP had secured a majority with 282 seats, while accommodating smaller allies in the Union Cabinet. “Likewise, in Tamil Nadu, Edappadi K. Palaniswami will form the government with the support of the BJP and alliance partners,” he said.

On TVK leader Vijay claiming that the contest was between his party and the DMK, Mr. Athawale said everyone was entitled to their opinion, but maintained that the main contest would be between the AIADMK and the DMK.

He said an NDA government in the State would ensure a greater flow of funds from the Centre. On the perceived public support for the TVK, he remarked that while Mr. Vijay was a popular actor, he was yet to establish himself as a political leader. He added that though Tamil Nadu had earlier supported actors such as M.G. Ramachandran and J. Jayalalithaa, Mr. Vijay might not receive similar backing.

Referring to his recent visit to Puducherry, Mr. Athawale said he had earlier indicated the possibility of seeking Mr. Vijay’s support, but expressed confidence that the NDA would secure a clear majority.