Edappadi fears losing grip over his party leadership: DMK’s Elangovan on AIADMK rift

Chennai, May 18 DMK spokesperson T.K.S. Elangovan on Monday claimed that the ongoing rift within the AIADMK is rooted in Edappadi K. Palaniswami’s fear that his leadership position could weaken if senior leaders from the party’s past are brought back into the fold.

The remarks came as the internal crisis within the AIADMK intensified further, with factional tensions spreading across several district units in Tamil Nadu and leading to police intervention in multiple locations.

The growing confrontation between supporters of AIADMK General Secretary, Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS), and the rival faction led by former Ministers S.P. Velumani and C.Ve. Shanmugham has reportedly escalated into a battle for organisational control. In several districts, party offices were locked and placed under police security amid rising tensions.

EPS has meanwhile accused the rebel faction of prioritising personal ambitions for ministerial posts over the unity and stability of the party.

Reacting to the developments, Elangovan told IANS, “This fight has been going on for quite some time, and Edappadi K. Palaniswami does not want to bring back leaders who were earlier senior members of the AIADMK. He is afraid that if they return, his own position may be weakened. This only reflects the weakness in Edappadi’s leadership, which has led to all these splits.”

The DMK leader also commented on actor Rajinikanth congratulating actor-turned-politician Vijay following the announcement of the Assembly election results.

Rajinikanth had earlier taken to X to extend his wishes to Vijay after the election outcome. Later, he also dismissed rumours suggesting that he was jealous of Vijay’s political success. The veteran actor clarified that his recent meeting with former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, M.K. Stalin, was purely personal in nature and stressed that their friendship spans nearly four decades and goes beyond political affiliations.

Rajinikanth had also strongly rejected speculation that the meeting with Stalin was aimed at preventing Vijay from emerging as Chief Minister.

Responding to the issue, Elangovan said, “What is wrong with it? He appreciates Stalin and knows that Stalin is a close friend of his. When someone from the film industry comes to power, he (Rajinikanth) will definitely wish them. What is wrong with that?”

Elangovan also reacted to criticism raised by actor Vishal and several others over Chief Minister Vijay allocating the Film Industry portfolio to Minister Rajmohan.

“There should be somebody who knows the film industry. They must be posted as ministers, so that they know what the film industry is and how to improve it. Maybe that is the reason there is criticism,” Elangovan said.

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