Erode: AIADMK functionaries move to TVK
A split within the AIADMK has led to a steady flow of party functionaries joining the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), according to reports from Erode.
Two camps within AIADMK
The AIADMK is said to be functioning in two groups — one led by general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami, and another associated with former ministers S. P. Shanmugam and K. P. Velumani.
Ramalingam’s removal followed by switch
Ramalingam, who belonged to the Velumani camp and served as the AIADMK Erode city district secretary, was removed from his post. Subsequently, he led a group of AIADMK office-bearers from the Erode region to join TVK in the presence of minister Sengottaiyan on Thursday night.
Leaders from other parties also join
In a separate development, Gayathri Srinivas, state joint secretary of the DMK’s youth wing, met minister Sengottaiyan and joined TVK. Several others, including a DMK area secretary and union secretaries, also joined.
Tiruppur sees similar moves
With TVK being the ruling party in Tamil Nadu, and with local body elections in mind, functionaries and former councillors from major parties including the DMK, AIADMK and BJP in Tiruppur have also begun joining TVK, the report said.
