Madurai saw fresh friction within the AIADMK after MP Inbathurai criticised Minister Aadhav Arjuna, triggering a sharp rebuttal from the party’s Madurai Corporation opposition leader, Solai Raja.
Inbathurai had argued that since Aadhav Arjuna is a minister, he should step down from his role as president of the Indian Basketball Federation. Citing the Lodha Committee’s recommendations, he said one person holding two responsibilities at the same time is improper and could affect administrative neutrality.
Responding, Solai Raja said Aadhav Arjuna serves as general secretary of the Tamil Nadu Olympic Association, where he himself is a senior vice-president, and also heads the Tamil Nadu Basketball Association. He said the criticism of a sportsperson by the AIADMK was personally hurtful, adding that only athletes understand the difficult path behind sporting achievements.
Solai Raja further said the Chief Minister Vijay could be praised for appointing Aadhav Arjuna as sports minister, and alleged that the AIADMK’s remarks were “low-level” and condemnable. He also claimed Aadhav Arjuna held sports body posts even before becoming a minister.
He added that AIADMK general secretary Palaniswami should have reprimanded Inbathurai on the issue. Solai Raja said he was ready to face any consequences from the party leadership for speaking publicly, even if it cost him his corporation opposition leader post.
