Chennai: The AIADMK is witnessing an intensified internal tussle after the party split into two camps, with both sides trying to draw district and union-level office-bearers and general council members to their side.
In the recent Tamil Nadu Assembly election, the AIADMK won 47 seats. Of these, 25 MLAs led by former ministers S.P. Velumani and C.V. Shanmugam extended support to the TVK government, while 22 MLAs aligned with party general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami voted against the government, deepening the divide.
Amid the rift, Palaniswami removed 25 district secretaries said to be backing the Velumani camp and appointed new district secretaries in their place. With the general secretary holding significant authority within the party, questions have been raised over whether those removed will be able to participate in the general council.
Both camps are now actively seeking written support from party functionaries, triggering fresh tension within the organisation. Palaniswami held a meeting at the AIADMK headquarters in Chennai with district secretaries, including the newly appointed 25, and reportedly told them that the party remained with his side.
Separately, supporters of Shanmugam met at his residence in Raja Annamalaipuram and discussed possible legal steps following the removals. In a statement, Velumani said they had supported the TVK government on political principle, insisted they had no intention to disrespect anyone or split the party, and added they were ready to talk if Palaniswami called, while reiterating that Palaniswami is the party’s general secretary.
