Former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam (OPS) is facing renewed speculation over a possible move to the ruling Thaveka party, amid claims that his son and former MP Ravindranath is urging him to switch sides.
According to the report, OPS had earlier joined the DMK believing it would return to power, later contested the Assembly election on the DMK ticket and became an MLA. With a party reorganisation expected soon, his supporters say they hope he will be given responsibility for 10 Assembly constituencies in the southern zone.
However, Ravindranath is said to want OPS to resign his MLA post and join Thaveka. The report adds that discussions have taken place with two Thaveka ministers, who have also recommended OPS to Chief Minister Vijay, citing his influence in the southern districts as a prominent Mukulathor community face.
OPS, speaking in a consultation with supporters, is quoted as saying his son’s political choices are his own, and that he has held many positions from city secretary to Chief Minister. He reportedly expressed a desire to continue serving people as a DMK MLA.
The report also notes that if OPS decides to join Thaveka, DMK MLAs Vaithilingam and Manoj Pandian could potentially move with him. It lists several leaders who have already joined Thaveka, including Sengottaiyan ahead of the election, and others such as Vellamandi Natarajan and Kolathur Krishnamoorthy.
