CHENNAI: VCK and Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) on Saturday extended “unconditional support” to Tamiliga Vettri Kazhagam, giving much-needed relief to actor-turned-politician Vijay in meeting the necessary number – 120 in the 234-member assembly-- to form the next govt in Tamil Nadu.CPI and CPM had extended their support following Congress, taking TVK’s tally from 107 to 116 by Friday night. With the VCK and IUML now on board, the total number has reached 120.

TVK leader Aadhav Arjuna received the letter of support from VCK leader Thol Thirumavalavan on Saturday evening. IUML national president Khader Mohideen handed over the letter of support to TVK functionary Arunraj and K A Sengottaiyan.In his letter addressed to Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Thirumavalavan conveyed the party’s support for the TVK to form the next government.

“This support is extended pursuant to the results of the general assembly election held in Tamil Nadu on April 23 and is being conveyed in the interest of ensuring stable and democratic governance for the people of Tamil Nadu,” said Thirumavalavan in the communication.Another letter addressed to the governor by VCK leader of the legislature party Vanni Arasu said, “Under the instruction of our party president Thol Thirumavalavan, I, Vanni Arasu, as the leader of the legislature party of VCK, TN assembly, on behalf of our two members of the legislative assembly, do hereby convey our unconditional support to the TVK under the leadership of president and legislature party leader of C Joseph Vijay for the purpose of formation of the government in the state of TN.

”Later, Thirumavalavansaid VCK would support TVK from outside like Left parties and not going to take part in government. He said, “We are still in DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance. We extend support only to prevent President rule.”Thirumavalavan noted that they had conveyed their decision to DMK leader M K Stalin, who responded positively to the move.IUML became the fifth party of the erstwhile DMK alliance to extend support to TVK to form the govt. TVK made two earlier attempts to get the support of IUML, but the party had refused to back TVK, citing its long-standing ties with DMK. However, TVK made a final push on Saturday to secure IUML’s support. After prolonged discussions between leaders of the two parties, IUML eventually agreed to extend support to TVK.With TVK possessing the support of 120 MLAs, Vijay is expected to form the govt soon. The governor is likely to invite Vijay to form the govt. The date for the swearing-in ceremony will be announced officially by the governor.