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EPS’ ADMK Goes The DMK Way Crying Foul About “Hindi Imposition”

The Commune
EPS' ADMK Goes The DMK Way Crying Foul About "Hindi Imposition"

In a surprising turn of events, AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami (EPS) criticized the central government on 18 October 2024, for forcefully imposing Hindi on non-Hindi speaking states. This unexpected embrace of the Tamil language and a notable shift toward Dravidian ideology have shocked many, leading political commentators to question the rationale behind EPS’s sudden alignment with the core agenda of his Dravidian rival, the DMK.

Edappadi K Palaniswami, through his official X account, stated, “Paavendhar Bharathidasan sang, ‘Wherever you see, it’s Shakti.’ It is reprehensible that today’s central rulers, who reference him in everything, are chanting, ‘Wherever you see, it’s Hindi’ in the country.”

“The central government is celebrating Hindi Month across the country.  It has been announced that the closing ceremony set to take place this evening at a Chennai (DD) TV station, attended by the Governor of Tamil Nadu. It is unacceptable for the Central government to conduct such programs aimed at forcefully imposing Hindi on non-Hindi speaking states.” He added

Sudden Shift Towards Brotherhood

Edappadi K Palaniswami’s sudden indirect outreach to the DMK appeared to be a response to a secret meeting held before the party’s 53rd anniversary. According to reports, senior leaders are pushing the leadership for a ‘unified approach’ to confront the DMK in the upcoming 2026 elections, which would involve reconciling with prominent figures like former Chief Minister O Panneerselvam, V K Sasikala, and T T V Dhinakaran which means the end of his leadership.

As the AIADMK approached its 53rd anniversary, apart from all the celebrations, there was a Cold War behind the scenes. Secret meetings among senior members revealed significant tensions within the party. These discussions, aimed at exploring a potential merger, often escalated into heated arguments, highlighting deep-seated resentment. Some factions appeared to exacerbate these tensions, further fueling internal discord.

Following the party’s disappointing performance in recent parliamentary elections, EPS convened meetings across constituencies, where many officials voiced concerns about grassroots issues. They noted a growing perception of division among party workers and the general public, emphasizing the urgent need for reform.

On 7 July 2024, six senior leaders—including K. A. Sengottaiyan, Natham R. Viswanathan, K. P. Anbalagan, C. V. Shanmugam, SP Velumani, and P. Thangamani—met with Palaniswami in Salem to strategize on uniting dissenting factions. While their discussions marked a significant development, Palaniswami firmly rejected the idea of a merger, indicating that attempts at reconciliation faced ongoing struggles within the party.

In early October, the AIADMK’s IT wing convened a meeting to enhance its efforts in exposing the DMK’s misgovernance and prepare for the upcoming elections. However, just before this meeting, a secret gathering took place at EPS’s residence, where senior leaders discussed the party’s future direction and internal matters. SP Velumani again raised the possibility of reconciling factions and sought EPS’s input.

Despite Velumani’s persuasive arguments regarding the challenges of the 2026 elections, EPS remained resistant, reportedly becoming upset and stating, “Are you trying to finish me and the party? As long as I am the general secretary, there is no way for a reunion.” Even attempts to clarify his stance did not ease the situation, as EPS left the discussion in anger. Reports indicated that while ten senior former MLAs supported the idea of a reunion, only four opposed it, leading to an ever-deepening rift within the party.

Critics accused EPS of being lenient toward the nepotism of the DMK, particularly following the appointment of Udhayanidhi Stalin as Deputy Chief Minister. This move contradicted the principles championed by J. Jayalalitha, who opposed such favoritism. Rumors circulated that EPS might even consider fielding his son in future elections.

Ultimately, many believed that EPS acted out of self-interest; when faced with difficulties, he sought help in Delhi but remained inactive in addressing the broader challenges facing the party. The AIADMK continued to struggle with ongoing losses, and grassroots cadres became increasingly demotivated, exacerbating the divisions within the party.

Previous Instance When EPS Went On Full DMK Mode

Shift in Terminology – Central to Union government

Edappadi K. Palaniswami employed the term “Ondriya Arasu,” originally coined by the DMK to refer to the Central government. This phrase carries implications that emphasize India as a union of states rather than a single, unified nation.

On 9 October 2023, the DMK passed a resolution urging the Central government to direct the Congress government in Karnataka to release Cauvery water in line with Supreme Court directives. The AIADMK supported this resolution, while the BJP walked out, arguing it was incomplete and did not mention Congress as the ruling party in Karnataka. Following the assembly session, EPS remarked that the DMK’s separate resolution concerning Cauvery water was aimed at the “ondriya arasu” (Union government). He stated, “They (DMK) brought about a separate resolution (for Cauvery water release) in the assembly; that was only to urge the ‘ondriya arasu.’”

Previously, the AIADMK had criticized the DMK for using “Ondriya Arasu” to address the central government and had aligned itself with the BJP. However, this recent shift suggests a significant change in stance, particularly after the AIADMK severed ties with the BJP.

Calling for the Release of Coimbatore Blast Convicts

Under Edappadi K. Palaniswami’s leadership, the AIADMK has also made a notable commitment to minority rights. Following its split from the BJP, the AIADMK raised a motion in the assembly concerning the release of Muslim prisoners, including those convicted for the 1998 Coimbatore bombings.

On 10 October 2023, EPS highlighted the need for humanitarian grounds to release over 36 Muslim prisoners, including 16 convicts sentenced to life in the Coimbatore blasts case, citing their long sentences, age, and health.

The Coimbatore serial blasts in 1998 resulted in 58 fatalities and many injuries. Sixteen individuals, including members of the Al-Umma, received life sentences, with many having spent over 25 years in prison despite ongoing calls for their release. Various groups, including Islamic parties and DMK allies like the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), have been advocating for their release, and protests have been prevalent in Tamil Nadu since the DMK came to power in 2021.

This initiative aligns with earlier efforts by the DMK government to release long-serving prisoners, particularly those imprisoned for two decades or more. The AIADMK’s push for these releases appears aimed at garnering support from Muslim organizations and the broader minority community.

During the AIADMK Golden Jubilee Conference in Madurai, the party committed to addressing the primary demand of Tamil Nadu’s Muslim community: the release of inmates involved in the 1998 Coimbatore blasts who have been imprisoned for over 20 years.

Seeking Alliance with Minority Parties

At a gathering in Salem, Palaniswami encouraged Muslims to support the AIADMK in the upcoming general elections. A video of his speech gained traction on social media, where he noted, “Many people from the Muslim community have come here. I would like to point out that ADMK has acted just as you wished. Similarly, you have to ensure that our candidates win the elections. I learned today that many people from the Muslim community reside in this area. You must go to each Muslim’s house and assure them that ADMK will always work towards the safety of the minority community. As far as the ADMK is concerned, just like how the eyelids protect the eyes, ADMK will be the first to protect the minority communities.”

Now, following recent statements from former Chief Minister and party organizing secretary O. Panneerselvam, EPS has suddenly shifted into full gear, subtly aligning with DMK’s agenda and indicating a secret pact that calls for urgent support.

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