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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