The 2026 Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu resulted in a hung assembly, with the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) emerging as the largest party with 108 seats but falling short of the 118-seat majority needed to form a government. This situation has sparked a constitutional debate regarding the Governor's role in government formation. While traditionally the largest party is invited first to prove majority support, there is no formal rule mandating this. The Governor, who acts as the constitutional head of the state, has the discretion to invite a post-poll alliance or coalition that may have a better chance of forming a stable government. However, the Supreme Court of India has emphasized that the ultimate test of majority lies within the Assembly, and decisions must be made in a neutral manner without political bias. The Governor's powers include ordering a floor test and recommending President’s Rule if no stable government can be formed, ensuring that the state does not remain without effective governance for an extended period.