Sources in AIADMK circles claim party general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami (EPS) is considering a move to bring former DMK minister Senthil Balaji into the AIADMK, positioning him as a strong internal counter to former AIADMK minister S P Velumani.
According to the party sources, although Velumani has rejoined EPS after earlier backing the TVK government, EPS is said to be wary of Velumani’s influence, including his perceived Delhi connections and clout within the Gounder community.
The sources said EPS has been looking to build a powerful alternative within the party but has struggled to find someone capable of taking on Velumani politically. Some close to EPS have reportedly suggested Senthil Balaji as a suitable choice, citing his organisational skills.
The same sources recalled that when the election results were out and TVK was reportedly struggling to form a government, talks took place about a DMK–AIADMK arrangement, during which EPS and Senthil Balaji are said to have spoken directly after several years.
They also pointed to the shift in Coimbatore’s political landscape—AIADMK’s tally dropping sharply in 2026 compared with 2021, while DMK grew and won two seats—claiming EPS believes Senthil Balaji played a key role. With Senthil Balaji said to be entangled in legal and inquiry-related issues and holding back-channel talks in Delhi, EPS is reportedly trying to leverage the situation through intermediaries, including a former judge and industrialists, offering influence over the Kongu region and help in “settling” cases. The sources added that Senthil Balaji has not yet rejected the overture, weighing options including the BJP and prospects for a major role in AIADMK after EPS.
