Communist Party of India (Marxist), Communist Party of India, and Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi have emerged as decisive players in Tamil Nadu's evolving political landscape following the Assembly election results.
Their support may determine whether C Joseph Vijay and his Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam can form the next government, or whether an alternative arrangement involving the DMK and AIADMK materialises.
MK Stalin held discussions with CPI-M State Secretary P Shanmugam, CPI State Secretary M Veerapandian, and VCK president Thol Thirumavalavan at his residence in Chennai.
Sources indicated that Stalin explored the possibility of the DMK extending support to the AIADMK to prevent prolonged political instability.
No party or alliance has secured the majority mark of 118 seats in the 234-member Tamil Nadu Assembly.
The CPI-M, CPI, and VCK collectively hold six MLAs, making their position critical in the current political equation.
Sources stated that the Communist parties would deliberate internally during state committee meetings before announcing a final decision.
Thirumavalavan reportedly indicated that VCK would broadly align with the position adopted by the Left parties.
Political observers believe the parties are balancing ideological commitments with the need for administrative stability after the fractured mandate created an unprecedented political situation in the state.
The DMK Legislature Party meeting is, however, expected to authorise Stalin to decide on any AIADMK request for support.
Sources within the DMK suggested the leadership currently favours extending outside support rather than formally joining an AIADMK-led administration.
Alliance partners may independently decide whether to participate directly in such a coalition framework.