Tight security outside TVK’s office in Chennaipublished at 08:07 BST
P Sivashankar
Reporting from Tamil Nadu
There is heavy security outside the TVK office in Chennai after trends show the party, led by superstar Vijay, is leading the state election.
Police have put strict checks in place on the main road leading to the building, with even party officials and volunteers being screened before they are allowed in. Only a handful of party members are inside the office premises, outnumbered by police personnel and journalists.
Party members and supporters have been sharing their joy at the possibility of the superstar’s party forming the next government – a note that any party needs 118 out of 234 assembly seats to form a government on its own here. Currently, Vijay’s party is leading in around 106 seats according to the Election Commission.
People have also flown in from outside the country to show their support for the actor.
Image source, P SivashankarTrends show Vijay’s TVK party leading in Tamil Nadu
Chandrasekhar Athikesav, 73, who came from Malaysia, shared his excitement for what he hopes will be a historic victory.
“My parents were originally from Tamil Nadu, but I was born in Malaysia and I am a Malaysian citizen,” he told BBC Tamil. “I have no voting rights here [in India], nor do I seek any government welfare benefits. However, I believe that for the welfare of the people in this era, Vijay must become chief minister.”
As the counting continues, police are increasing their rounds and checks around the office and are reinforcing security arrangements.