Chennai | Congress leadership directed the TNCC to take a final decision on TVK chief Vijay's request for the grand old party's support in government formation, considering the sentiments of the state reflected in poll verdict, Congress general secretary K C Venugopal said.

Admitting that Vijay has requested the Indian National Congress for its support in forming the government, he said the TVK founder spoke about drawing inspiration from Congress leader and late Chief Minister Kamaraj as well, in his political mission.

"The INC is clear that the mandate in Tamil Nadu is for a secular government that is committed to protecting the Constitution in letter and spirit. The INC is determined not to have the BJP and its proxies run the government of Tamil Nadu in any manner," Venugopal said in a statement posted on 'X.' Accordingly, the Congress leadership has directed the TNCC to take a final decision on Vijay's request, keeping in view the sentiments of the state reflected in the electoral verdict, he said.

The Congress, which is a major constituent of the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance, has won five seats in the April 23 Assembly election. Its decision to respond positively to Vijay's plea has irked the Dravidian major which managed to win only 59 seats.

DMK's rival, the AIADMK which was also eclipsed by Vijay, had succeeded in securing only 47 seats while the TVK won 108 including the two constituencies - Perambur and Tiruchirappalli East contested by Vijay.