Tamil Nadu’s political landscape is embroiled with situations as the ruling DMK faces significant discontent from its allies, including the VCK, Communists, and Congress, who are openly warning the party. Meanwhile, the opposition AIADMK is grappling with internal strife, as a rift deepens within its ranks.

According to a Vikatan report, senior leaders are advocating for a ‘unified approach’ to taking on DMK in 2026, which means reconciling with prominent figures like former Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam, V. K. Sasikala, and T. T. V. Dhinakaran.

What’s Happening Within The AIADMK?

As the AIADMK approaches its 53rd anniversary, having ruled Tamil Nadu for nearly 31 years and introduced numerous social welfare initiatives, party volunteers and leaders are gearing up for celebrations. However, behind the scenes, secret meetings among senior members have sparked significant tensions within the party, reveals a report by Vikatan. These discussions, aimed at exploring a potential merger, have often devolved into heated arguments, reflecting deep-seated resentment. District secretaries and junior leaders at AIADMK have noted that some factions appear to exacerbate these tensions to create further internal strife.

Following the party’s disappointing performance in the parliamentary elections, AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi Palaniswami convened meetings across constituencies, where many officials expressed concerns about issues at the grassroots level. They highlighted a perception of division both among party workers and the general public, emphasizing the need for reform.

In this regard, on 7 July 2024, six senior leaders including K. A. Sengottaiyan, Natham R. Viswanathan, K. P. Anbalagan, C. V. Shanmugam, SP Velumani, P. Thangamani reportedly met with Palaniswami in Salem to discuss strategies for uniting dissenting factions and strengthening the party. Their statement about this meeting marked a significant development, but Palaniswami firmly rejected the notion of a merger, suggesting that any attempts at reconciliation had been met with ongoing struggles within the party.

And now recently, the AIADMK’s IT wing held a meeting in the first week of October to bolster its efforts in exposing the DMK’s misgovernance and to prepare for the upcoming 2026 elections. However, the day before this meeting, a secret gathering took place at Edappadi Palaniswami’s residence, where senior leaders discussed the party’s future direction, touching on internal matters as well. SP Velumani reportedly brought up the possibility of reconciling the party’s factions and sought EPS’s input once again.

Despite Velumani’s persuasion, which emphasized the challenges of the 2026 elections, EPS firmly rejected the idea. According to reports, he became visibly upset, exclaiming, “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 when senior leaders tried to clarify his misunderstanding, EPS left the discussion in anger. Reports indicate that there are ten senior former MLAs supporting the idea of a reunion, while only four MLAs are opposed to it. As a result, the rift within the party continues to grow deeper day by day.

Accusations Against EPS

Cadres and leaders have been criticizing EPS for his lenient stance regarding the nepotistic politics of the DMK, particularly following the appointment of Udhayanidhi Stalin as Deputy Chief Minister. This move is seen as contrary to the principles upheld by J. Jayalalitha, who strongly opposed such favoritism. Rumors are rapidly spreading that EPS may be considering fielding his son in future elections.

Critics argue that EPS is acting out of self-interest; when his family faced difficulties, he traveled to Delhi for assistance, yet he remains inactive when it comes to addressing the party’s broader challenges. The AIADMK has been struggling with continuous losses, and grassroots cadres lack motivation, further exacerbating the divisions within the party.

(With Inputs From Vikatan)

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The post Vikatan Report Says Internal Strife Back In ADMK Again As Senior Leaders Push For ‘United’ AIADMK; EPS Stubbornly Declares “Not While I’m General Secretary” appeared first on The Commune.

VK Sasikala, the former interim general secretary of the AIADMK, issued a statement on 5 June 2024, urging ‘party (AIADMK) members to unite’. This appeal came in response to JCD Prabhakar’s plea for unity among supporters of AIADMK stalwarts MG Ramachandran and Jayalalithaa, made by the former Villivakkam MLA and a key aide of former AIADMK coordinator O Panneerselvam.

In her statement, Sasikala expressed concern over the consecutive electoral setbacks the organization (AIADMK) faced in the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections, emphasizing the need for collective effort rather than individual endeavours. She highlighted the party’s critical juncture, urging a choice between continued defeats or a return to success.

Reflecting on her efforts to protect the AIADMK before her imprisonment in 2017 due to a disproportionate assets case, Sasikala lamented the subsequent loss of power and disunity within the party. Stressing the importance of the party’s supporters and the state’s people, she urged genuine stakeholders to step up to prevent the party’s demise and foster the state’s progress. Sasikala articulated a vision for reviving the “Amma reign” by 2026, expressing regret over the party’s failure to secure deposits in seven constituencies.

Sasikala, hitting out at the DMK, stated, “This can be seen as an example of (proverb) “If a town is divided, dancers will celebrate” DMK is taking advantage of the divisions in our organisation and winning it cold. I have been patient all this time with the sole thought that this movement should never fail.“

Slamming the party’s general secretary, Edappadi K Palanisami, she wrote, “I made great efforts to unify the party. The destruction of the movement can no longer amuse me because of the personal preferences and hatred of a few. Losing its recognition as India’s third-largest party, it has come fourth in a few seats in today’s parliamentary elections. Being relegated to the third place is very painful. Also, it is a huge pain that the movement has never seen deposit amount in 7 places. This is why the two great leaders worked tirelessly for the progress of this movement till their last breath. This is a huge betrayal to them. I cannot bear this.”

“What led to this predicament? The movement has encountered an unprecedented string of defeats. There’s no advantage in pursuing separate paths. Each individual must contemplate their own role in achieving success. Otherwise, it’s crucial to heed others’ advice and rectify mistakes. Dwelling on losses and shedding tears serves no purpose. Should a movement initiated by a revolutionary leader and nurtured by a revolutionary figure continue to falter, or should it strive for success? The time has come to decide. Everyone must acknowledge this reality and rally to unite the party. I urge everyone to remember the words of our revolutionary leader, Amma, who proclaimed, “This movement will continue to serve the people for generations.”

“If I maintain patience, it’s out of loyalty to our Puratchi Thalaivi. Betraying the millions of dedicated volunteers who have devoted their lives to this movement and the people of Tamil Nadu would be a grave injustice. Thus, this movement must stand united. All faction leaders must set aside personal preferences and prioritize the welfare of the people of Tamil Nadu and the devoted volunteers of this movement. Embrace everyone equally, upholding the principles established by our revered leader, regardless of caste or religion, in line with our revolutionary leader’s ethos. My aim is unity. The party and the people of Tamil Nadu are my family. Unlike our revolutionary leader mother, I lack a personal family. I harbour no personal biases. I want to emphasize that every decision I’ve made since the passing of my mentor and guide in politics, our revolutionary leader mother, has been for the betterment of the party and the people of Tamil Nadu. Who is to blame? Ponder this: if everyone had united and faced the parliamentary elections as a formidable force, the DMK alliance, currently revelling in victory, would have faced a crushing defeat.”

“During the critical period of 2017, when I was unjustly imprisoned due to political machinations, my sole concern was preserving Amma’s legacy, which meant safeguarding the party. However, what ensued? The party’s rule failed to return in Tamil Nadu. The party itself suffered. Our revolutionary leader always emphasized that this party is for the underprivileged and, thus, it is crucial. She constantly reminded me of the significance of our volunteers. For me, the millions of volunteers who believe in this party and the people of Tamil Nadu hold the utmost importance. Recognizing this, this party mustn’t perish. All those genuinely interested in advancing the welfare of the people of Tamil Nadu should come forward. A bright future awaits. Our goal is to reinstate Amma’s governance in Tamil Nadu, and no force can hinder the party from winning the 2026 Tamil Nadu assembly elections. We must commence our efforts immediately. Everyone must join hands and work in unity for the betterment of the party and the people of Tamil Nadu. I warmly invite you all to the “Jayalalitha House”.

Let’s unite under the Kazhagam banner. Let’s unite to advance our movement and better the lives of our devoted volunteers and the people of Tamil Nadu. Club volunteers, don’t be disheartened. If we stand united, no one can defeat us. The future belongs to us. To fulfil the dreams of our two great leaders, all the hardships we face today will pave the way for a brighter tomorrow if we stay steadfast on the right path,” the press release concluded.

pic.twitter.com/Qvkv9IPIe6

— V K Sasikala (@AmmavinVazhi) June 5, 2024

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The post VK Sasikala Takes On EPS, Calls For A United AIADMK appeared first on The Commune.

Tamil Nadu BJP President K Annamalai recently praised AIADMK’s late leader J Jayalalithaa, stating that she excelled as a proponent of Hindutva ideology in the state. He emphasized that until her passing, Jayalalithaa stood out as a formidable figure in championing Hindu interests, even surpassing other leaders in Tamil Nadu. Annamalai highlighted her support for causes like the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya and the implementation of an anti-conversion law in Tamil Nadu during her tenure.

In an interview with PTI, Annamalai asserted his determination to elevate the BJP’s position in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape, underscoring the opportunity presented by the perceived departure of AIADMK from Hindutva principles after Jayalalithaa’s era. Annamalai asserted, “Now, if you look at it, sir, till Jayalalithaa ji was alive, she was a far superior Hindutva leader than anybody in Tamil Nadu. Pre-2014, when you have a party like the BJP and Jayalalithaa as a leader, the natural choice of a Hindu voter would be Jayalalithaa, who displayed her Hindu identity openly.” 

However, Annamalai’s remarks sparked dissent among present and former AIADMK members, including Jayalalithaa’s close associate VK Sasikala, who countered the assertion by emphasizing Jayalalithaa’s stance on religious equality. The debate escalated further, with various leaders, including former Fisheries Minister Jaya Kumar, weighing in on the matter.

In response, Annamalai cited Jayalalithaa’s parliamentary speeches supporting the Ram temple construction and her endorsement of Hindutva causes. This led to a contentious exchange between the BJP and the AIADMK.

On 27 May 2024, Annamalai reaffirmed that the former chief minister J Jayalalithaa was deeply aligned with Hindutva ideology. Leading a gathering of BJP district secretaries and state-level officials at the party headquarters in Chennai, Annamalai highlighted Jayalalithaa’s past actions, stating, “In 1993, Jayalalithaa spearheaded a signature campaign advocating for the construction of the Ram Temple, garnering 20 lakh signatures. Moreover, in 2003, she voiced her stance that the Ram Temple should be built in India.”

Post the session, Annamalai emphasized to the press that Jayalalithaa epitomized a strong proponent of Hindutva principles. “Back on 26 July 1984, during her tenure as a Rajya Sabha MP, Jayalalithaa spoke out against Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Today, one might question AIADMK’s position on Article 370,” Annamalai remarked.

Referring to Jayalalithaa’s initiatives, including her opposition to the Anti-Conversion bill and the establishment of Vedha Padasalai in 1991, Annamalai challenged any objections to labeling her as a Hindutva figure. “Why should there be any qualms in recognizing Jayalalithaa as a Hindutva leader?” Annamalai questioned. Citing Jayalalithaa’s endorsement of a uniform civil code in 2003 and AIADMK’s subsequent opposition to it in July 2023, the BJP state president underscored the shifts in political stances over time.

Despite the plethora of supporting references provided by TN BJP Chief Annamalai, former Fisheries Minister Jaya Kumar has unveiled an audio recording allegedly containing Jayalalithaa’s speech, albeit its authenticity remains dubious. The netizens mock the situation, noting that the audio released by Jaya Kumar seems to have been edited within 0.04 seconds.

இராமர் கோவில்-பாபர் மசூதி விவகாரத்தில் மாண்புமிகு அம்மா அவர்கள் உரை!

இரு மதங்களுக்கும் நடுநிலையாகவே தனது நிலைப்பாட்டை தெளிவாக தெரிவித்துள்ளார்.
இது தான் அம்மா அவர்களின் அன்றைய உண்மையான நிலைப்பாடு.
அந்த செய்தித்தாளில் வந்தது இந்த செய்தித்தாளில் வந்தது என அறமற்று கருத்துகளை… pic.twitter.com/d5QRdUpkB4

— DJayakumar (@djayakumaroffcl) May 29, 2024

Is Jayalalitha truly a Hindutva leader as asserted by TN BJP President Annamalai? Yes, indeed. The Hindu reported that during her tenures as Chief Minister from 1991-96 and 2001-06, many of Jayalalithaa’s decisions resonated positively with the BJP. Just three months after the demolition of the Babri Masjid in December 1992, senior BJP leader LK Advani highlighted the growing mutual goodwill and rapport between his party and the AIADMK, citing Jayalalithaa’s speech at the National Integration Council (NIC) in November 1992 as a significant factor. This speech, where Jayalalithaa advocated for creating a congenial atmosphere for the conduct of “kar seva” in Ayodhya, was extensively discussed in the state for months.

Even in the Assembly on 18 March 1993, Jayalalithaa’s stance on the issue was brought up, with allegations that she favored the “kar seva.” However, she clarified that she sought resolution through legal means and conditions conducive to building a temple. Her commitment to the cause was evident when she questioned how her party strayed from the Dravidian movement, firmly asserting her adherence to its principles. Even a decade later, in an interview with the media, Jayalalithaa queried, “If we cannot build a temple in India for Lord Ram, where else can we build it?”

Jayalalithaa’s actions spoke volumes as well. During her first term, she assumed the portfolio of Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments, showcasing her dedication to her faith. Her administration also introduced the Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Forcible Conversion of Religion Act, 2002, and attempted to enforce laws against animal sacrifice in temples, though met with opposition. The ‘Anna-Dhanam’ scheme was brought under her government.

During an interview with India Today, when asked about her stance on Ayodhya, Jayalalitha responded firmly, stating, “I haven’t changed my position or contradicted myself. I’ve simply echoed what the Congress(I) has stated in its manifesto – advocating for the construction of the temple while preserving the mosque. How can I be accused of inconsistency? I’ve emphasized the importance of respecting the sentiments of the majority and allowing them to build a temple there. It’s the responsibility of the central government to create a conducive environment for the kar seva.”

When confronted with the interviewer’s suggestion that her recent emphasis on religion contradicts Dravidian ideology, Jayalalitha countered, saying, “How so? In Karunanidhi’s interpretation of Dravidian ideology, it seems to imply gaining the majority vote to attain power and then disregarding their sentiments. We must protect the rights of minorities, but the majority also holds constitutional rights that must be respected.”

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The post “Create Conducive Environment For Karseva”: Annamalai Is Right, Reports Prove That Late Former TN CM Jayalalithaa Was A Strong Hindutva Leader appeared first on The Commune.

In a recent letter dated 2 April 2024, VK Sasikala, the General Secretary of the AIADMK, expressed strong support for the Kachchathivu issue. Highlighting the significance of the matter, Sasikala emphasized the need to safeguard the rights of Sri Lankan Tamils and ensure the retrieval of Kachchathivu, which she asserts belongs to Indian soil.

Sasikala pointedly criticized the DMK and Congress parties, holding them accountable for neglecting the interests of Tamil Nadu fishermen and failing to address the ongoing confrontations with the Sri Lankan Navy. She asserted that the revolutionary leader, the late Jayalalithaa, ardently advocated for the recovery of Kachchathivu, filing a case in the Supreme Court and spearheading resolutions in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly.

In her missive, Sasikala recounted historical events surrounding Kachchathivu, tracing its ownership back to the Sethupathi kings of Ramanathapuram and condemning its cession to Sri Lanka in 1974 by the Indian government. She reiterated the necessity of restoring Kachchathivu to Indian territory to ensure the livelihood and security of Tamil Nadu fishermen.

Furthermore, Sasikala disclosed efforts made towards resolving the issue, including obtaining permission for Tamil devotees to participate in the festival of St. Anthony’s Church on Kachchathivu Island in 2016. She lamented the unfulfilled implementation of a comprehensive action plan devised during Jayalalithaa’s tenure, citing her demise as a setback.

Asserting the need for a robust central government and a determined Prime Minister, Sasikala assured that under their leadership, efforts to retrieve Kachchathivu and protect the rights of Sri Lankan Tamils would be prioritized.

pic.twitter.com/74r0j8Pfyx

— V K Sasikala (@AmmavinVazhi) April 2, 2024

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The Arumughaswamy Commission that enquired into late Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa’s demise in 2016, is a lesson on how a Commission must not function.

The report was finally tabled in the Tamil Assembly on 17 October 2022, four years after the Commission came into existence following the passing away of the AIADMK supremo on December 5, 2016. (The report disputes the date and time of her death as well). She had been hospitalized for two months in Chennai’s Apollo Hospital.

O. Paneerselvam was sworn in as the Chief Minister and subsequently he launched a “Dharma Yuddham” alleging foul play in Jayalalithaa’s death and that he was forced to resign.

With Palaniswami in the Chief Minister’s seat and V.K Sasikala in jail, a truce was engineered between the two warring AIDMK factions, with the compromise and solution, being the proposed Justice Arumughaswamy Commission, which was to investigate the circumstances of  the late AIADMK supremo’s unfortunate death.

After four long years and with crores of tax payer money spent, retired Justice Arumughaswamy submitted his findings in a disappointing and flawed report.

Justice Arumughaswamy incorrectly states Jayalalitha’s date of death as 4th Dec 2016 at 3.50 pm instead of 5th Dec at 11.30 pm. which is a day earlier than what was originally reported by doctors.

Early on in the report, Arumughaswamy makes a strange point.

In this context, it is pertinent to mention about the news item which appeared in “The Times of India” dated 03.10.2016. After seeing the bulletin published by the R.2 hospital, that she was taking treatment and was responding and a few more days’ stay in the hospital is essential for her recovery, the former Chief Minister Dr. Kalaignar M. Karunanidhi gave a statement that she was admitted for fever and dehydration as per the report of the hospital and, in the meantime, there are also reports that she met the officials and political leaders in the hospital and discussed about Cauvery River Water issue and she is capable of dictating the statement filed before the Cauvery River Water issue meeting held in New Delhi. The former Chief Minister stated that a photograph of what transpired in the hospital itself, has to be released. However, it has not been released to the public. It will alone put an end to the rumours. Further, he stated that mystery over her treatment and health condition would be clear only then. But, it has been ignored. He also emphasized that even though he had different ideologies with Selvi J Jayalalithaa, he wished her a speedy recovery. What the former Chief Minister anticipated, had unfortunately taken place. The Chief Secretary C.W.12 also requested to take a photograph along with ailing C.M. after the meeting was over. Even though late C.M. Madam also agreed and they were waiting for the photographer outside the room, the view has been changed by somebody from inside the room. We have to appreciate the statement given to the Press by the former Chief Minister late Dr.Kalaignar M.Karunanidhi, since the same was the view expressed. (Pg 166-167)

The retd judge appears to favour AIDMK’s political opponent DMK and its leader Mr. Karunanidhi when he reports that Karunanidhi could purportedly see the future and that he had demanded to see periodic pictures from the hospital. He claims that the elderly politician’s predictions shared at the time with the press, had eventually come true.

Following a tip of the hat to the late DMK leader, Arumughaswamy then goes to his big conspiracy theory but neglects to provide evidence to back it up.

According to him, VK Sasikala was the mastermind behind ensuring that treatment to Jayalalithaa was botched. He claims that Sasikala, Dr. K.S. Sivakumar (Sasikala’s nephew), Dr. J Radhakrishnan the then Health Secretary, Dr. Vijayabhaskar (former Health Minister ), Dr. Babu Abraham (pulmonologist at Apollo Hospital ) and Dr. YVC Reddy conspired against Jayalalitha by not providing her with the proper treatment at the right time and hence an investigation into the suspicious behaviour of them needs to be conducted.

On 25.11.2016, when Dr.Samin Sharma, from USA, arrived and was prepared to do angio, C.W.106-Dr.Babu Abraham finds a shortcut to postpone the surgery by contacting Dr.Richard Beale, UK Doctor, who in turn conveys to the US Doctor that “now only she is improving”. Hence, the UK Doctor suggested to postpone the angio. In this manner, C.W.106-Dr.Babu Abraham played a trick to postpone the angio treatment of late C.M. under the pretext of Dr.Richard Beale,but, which is not found anywhere in the Medical Records, and because of this, late C.M. was deprived of this critical treatment and at a later stage her clinical condition deteriorated which later led to her unfortunate demise. – (Pg 192)

This report by a retired judge appears more flawed and biased than the A.K Rajan Committee report on NEET.

The worst part is that all of these illogical claims by the venerable retired judge have no basis in fact. The actual depositions that the various witnesses and respondents made, are in complete opposition to his conclusions. It appears that the judge has not just twisted facts but in fact, created them out of thin air.

He also blames the AIIMS doctors panel of not caring about Jayalalithaa.

During their visits,AIIMS Doctors have taken note of the endorsements already made in the R.2 hospital case sheet by R.2 hospital doctor Dr.Ram Gopalakrishnan and Dr.Rajeev Soman and Dr.Jigitivatia from Bombay and the UK Doctor Dr.Richard Beale, who have all suggested for early valve surgery. From their evidence it is very clear that the AIIMS doctors have not taken enough care to consider the cardiac ailment of late C.M. during their first visit and it is not indicated in their report also. – (Pg 206)

Jayalalithaa was suffering from ARDS (Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome). While the doctors claimed there was a mild heart condition (mild vegetation in the mitral valve ) that was not considered life threatening, Judge Arumughaswamy insists that the doctors should have operated on her heart right away instead of treating the more serious condition of her lungs (ARDS).

He reports that this alleged medical misstep was the likely cause of her death. Such a claim goes against multiple depositions with various medical experts, claiming otherwise. Judge Arumughaswamy reports against the knowledge, judgement and credibility of all the doctors involved in Jayalalitha’s treatment in any capacity – domestic, international (Dr. Richard Beale from the UK) as well as the highly reputable doctors from AIIMS. The doctors had all agreed that it wasn’t Jayalalithaa’s heart but her lungs, the infection in her blood and her high sugar levels, that were slowly killing her.

To put it in context, Mr Arumughaswamy finds fault with doctors for not bandaging and treating a small scratch on Jayalalitha’s hand but focusing on a fractured leg which apparently resulted in her death!

AIIMS Doctors were aware that she was suffering from two vegetations. Two thoracic surgeons and also two Intensivists had recommended for early valve surgery. Thereafter only, AIIMS team had seen the patient with pleural effusion and pulmonary oedema. Because of the ventilation, she had undergone Tracheostomy. Even thereafter, it is not known, what symptom was expected by the AIIMS Doctors to advise surgery? The peculiarity is that no surgeon was invited, whereas Anaesthesist had been called and he came. Further, the Commission wishes to mention that AIIMS Doctors would merely say that they came here only to supervise the treatment of R.2 hospital. Because they are aware if they say that they treated the late C.M. they will come within the ambit of investigation. What is the meaning of “supervise”? Dictionary gives the meaning as “to watch somebody/something to make sure that work is being done properly or that people are behaving correctly.”Supervise means “they should ensure that correct treatment is given” . While looking at it, they have utilized executive class Air ticket and star hotel comforts even though Centralized A.C. State Guest House was available, why the Health Secretary arranged all these thing under the head of hospitality and serving food all along for 75 days incurred more than a Crore Rupees all these are have to be answered at the time of investigation. (they are only doctors, whether they are eligible for Executive Class?) – (Pg 212-213)

He quotes Dr. Sharma from Mount Sinai Hospital in the U.S, who clearly states he was willing to operate on Jayalalithaa’s heart only if it was deemed necessary by her team of doctors. At that point, there was concensus among the doctors that a heart surgery should be performed only after Jayalalithaa had made some recovery because they had all opined that it was not a life threatening heart condition. Imagine conducting a non-emergency heart surgery on a patient that was struggling to breathe!

The Terms of Reference for the Arumughaswamy Commission are clear. They are :
1) the Commission was constituted to enquire into the circumstances and siruation leading to ex Chief Minister, Selvi Jayalalitha’s hospitalization on 22/9/2016
2) enquiry into the subsequent treatment provided to her, till her unfortunate demise on 5/12/2016.

Mr. Arumughaswamy appears to have gone way beyond the scope of the Terms of Reference stated by the Supreme Court by delving into the 2011 rift between Jayalalithaa and Sasikala.

Without a shred of evidence, he has decided that Sasikala was in a “mood of simmering discontent” and took her revenge at the appropriate time.

He seems to have harassed several witnesses about an alleged rift between Jayalalitha and Sasikala in 2011, reaching his own conclusions about the animosity and Sasikala’s vengeance. He fails to account for a birthday gift (a car) that Jayalalitha presented to Sasikala in the intervening years. He arrives at the conclusion that O Panneerselvam’s “Dharma Yudham” was malafide. The additional investigations and conjecture go way beyond the scope of the clearly stated Terms of Reference.

Dr. Madhan Kumar and fellow doctors had even complained to the Supreme Court about Arumughaswamy’s behaviour. Many witnesses complained that the ex-judge would not entertain their requests of any changes to their testimony. Mr Arumughaswamy’s behaviour seemed hostile to most witnesses. There seems to be have been a malafide intent to the commission’s report. The report reads as if the conclusion was already decided upon and the Commission was merely searching for evidence to back the forgone conclusion.

What is the intent of such a report by Mr Arumughaswamy? Many witnesses have complained that his report has misquoted their statements. He gets some medical jargon wrong.

At one point in the report he states thus:

On 4.12.2016 C.W.65-Maheswari and C.W.61-VijayalakshmiNurses, stated that they were fixing Nebulizer to late C.M., at 4.20 p.m.; the rhythm of her heart beat changed and it was seen in the monitor two to three times and her eyes rolled up. Immediately, the available Doctor gave electric shock to her heart and as it did not resume, they called the Surgeon. At that time, C.W.60 Dr.Rama Devi, C.W.102-Dr.Ramesh Venkatraman were present and they immediately commenced CPR – (Pg 368)

Imagine giving electric shock to the heart! That’s how ridiculously he gets the medical references wrong.

Arumughaswamy seems to have a problem with J. Radhakrishnan IAS. He picks on Dr. J Radhakrishnan, the then Health Secretary and unwarrantedly questions his veterinary background. Dr Radhakrishnan was just acting in his capacity as the Health Secretary.He has accused former Health Minister C Vijay Bhaskar of wrongdoing without providing a shred of evidence to back his allegations.

But what is the most appalling aspect of the report is that he has insulted the intelligence of the entire medical fraternity by subscribing to conspiracy theories.

In conclusion, the Arumughamswamy’s report is a job shabbily done that is full of holes, very low on facts, fantastically high on conspiracy theories and malafide intentions.

It is a report that is fit to be thrown back at the retired judge’s face.

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The post Arumughaswamy’s Report On Jayalalithaa’s Death Is Fit To Be Thrown Back At The Retd Judge appeared first on The Commune.

Tamil Nadu Leader of Opposition Edappadi K. Palaniswami held key consultations with 9 District Secretaries at the AIADMK office for the first time after being elected Leader of the Opposition.

Edappadi K. Palaniswami consulted with 9 district secretaries to discuss the party’s performance in Chennai and what the party could do next to pick itself up. District Secretaries Rajesh, Venkateshbabu, Balaganga, former ministers Jayakumar, Satya, Ashok Virugai Ravi, Adirajaram, KP Kanthan, Benjamin and Valarmati were present. AIADMK Coordinator O. Panneerselvam did not attend the consultation meeting despite being in Chennai.

Edappadi K Palaniswami, while addressing the press, thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy and Telangana Chief Minister Chandrasekar Rao after the National Water Development Agency of the Union Jal Shakti Ministry finalized a detailed project report on inter-linking the Godavari-Cauvery rivers. The central agency has sent the report to the state governments for comments.

He advised Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin to take precautions in order to reduce the number of COVID cases and enhance the number of testing centers and samples examined.

In response to a question on Sasikala’s latest audio leaks, he stated that Sasikala, a close aide of late Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa, had previously issued a statement before the Assembly Election that she was keeping out of politics. He clarified that Sasikala has been talking only to the AMMK cadres, and not with the AIADMK cadres. He added that there is no room for expelled leader V K Sasikala in the AIADMK.

Asked about AIADMK Coordinator O Panneerselvam not being present in today’s meeting, Mr. Palaniswami denied any rift between them and said O Panneerselvam is busy shifting to his new house as today being an auspicious day.

When asked about the DMK and its allies’ repeated use of the term “Union” to refer to the “Central” government, he replied that the Tamil people are only accustomed to using the terms “Central government,” & “State government,” and the party will continue to use “Central” government rather than “Union.” He added that the name cannot be changed at one’s convenience.

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Expelled leader and former Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa’s aide V.K. Sasikala has left for Chennai from Bengaluru where she was put up post her release from jail.

Sasikala was formally released from the central jail in Bengaluru’s Parappana Agrahara on January 27. However, she spent some more days at the Victoria Hospital as she was recently diagnosed with COVID-19.

After her discharge from the hospital she was staying at the Prestige Golfshire Club from where she left for Chennai today in a car having the AIADMK flag.

She is expected to trigger a political drama by staking claim as the leader of the AIADMK.

Earlier, the AIADMK had complained to Tamil Nadu Director General of Police (DGP) stating that V.K. Sasikala and her newphew Dhinakaran are planning to unleash violence by using the party’s flag and name.

In light of her return, the newly opened Amma Memorial in Marina Beach, the AIADMK headquarters in Royapettah and the Veda Nilayam (Jayalalithaa’s house) have been closed with heavy police protection.

#Sasikala on her way to #Chennai. There are several programmes planned on the route. Clearly, you can see she using the #AIADMK flag despite circular issued by #TamilNadu government not to. pic.twitter.com/BW1S6UYrDR

— Imran Khan (@KeypadGuerilla) February 8, 2021

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V K Sasikala, the former aide to Jayalalithaa was discharged from Victoria Hospital in Bengaluru, Karnataka on January 31.

Sasikala was formally released from the central jail in Bengaluru’s Parappana Agrahara on January 27. However, she spent some more days at the Victoria Hospital as she was recently diagnosed with COVID-19.

She was admitted to the Bowring and Lady Curzon Hospital in Bengaluru on the evening of January 20 after she had fever, breathlessness and cough with her oxygen levels dipping.

Later she was diagnosed with Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) and was sent for a CT Scan for further investigation.

Officials had suspected she might have been infected with COVID as she showed symptoms of fever and breathlessness.

While the AIADMK led by CM Palaniswami and Deputy CM O. Panneerselvam have stated that Sasikala’s release would not have any impact on the ground, it is expected that at least a ripple would be created in the party. It is expected that Sasikala will be joining the Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK), which was founded as a separate party by Sasikala’s nephew TTV Dhinakaran.

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An office bearer of the AIADMK was terminated from the primary membership of the party after his men pasted posters of Sasikala welcoming her release from prison.

Subramania Raja, the Deputy Secretary of MGR Mandram of Tirunelveli district was removed from the party on the grounds of acting against the party’s goals and principles and for denigrating the party’s dignity, the party communique read.

It said that Subramania Raja’s actions amounted to bringing bad reputation to the party and asked the party cadres to not be in contact with the office bearer.

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An air of tension prevails over Tamil Nadu, as the memorial dedicated to former Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa was inaugurated by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami on Wednesday (January 27). This coincided with the release of V K Sasikala, the former aide to Jayalalithaa and former general secretary of the AIADMK. It is important to note that her release comes just months before the assembly elections in Tamil Nadu.

Sasikala was formally released from the central jail in Bengaluru’s Parappana Agrahara after jail officials wearing PPE kits completed the formalities at the hospital. But, she will be spending a few more days at the Victoria Hospital in Bengaluru, as she was recently diagnosed with COVID-19.

Meanwhile, the new memorial for Jayalalithaa has been opened to the public by the Chief Minister and the Deputy Chief Minister. This memorial has been constructed near the MGR Memorial in the Marina beach and is said to have state of the art amenities.

Since this was scheduled on the same day as the release of Sasikala, there was a looming uncertainty about a potential shift in power dynamics that could happen following her release. While the AIADMK led by CM Palaniswami and Deputy CM O. Panneerselvam have stated that Sasikala’s release would not have any impact on the ground, it is expected that at least a ripple would be created in the party. It is expected that Sasikala will be joining the Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK), which was founded as a separate party by Sasikala’s nephew TTV Dhinakaran.

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