Chennai: Senior AIADMK leader and former minister KA Sengottaiyan has ignited widespread political speculation after announcing that he will “speak openly” on September 5 at the party office in Gopichettipalayam, Erode. The announcement comes amid growing indications of discontent within the AIADMK ranks, particularly concerning his relationship with party chief Edappadi K Palaniswami (EPS). Sengottaiyan’s statement has not only created anticipation within the AIADMK but also drawn attention from rival political parties curious about a potential shift in his allegiance.
Sengottaiyan’s dissatisfaction with the party leadership appears to have been brewing for nearly six months. His recent activities, including two meetings with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Delhi, had already sparked rumours of a possible move to the BJP. There were also unconfirmed reports of his potential affiliation with the actor Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam. Against this backdrop, his latest announcement has added fuel to the fire, with many interpreting it as a sign of an impending major political decision.
Periyar Photo Placement Adds Ideological Intrigue to Moves
In a move that has deepened the intrigue, Sengottaiyan recently placed a portrait of social reformer Periyar alongside images of AIADMK icons MGR, Jayalalithaa, and Annadurai at the Gopichettipalayam party office. This symbolic act is being closely read in political circles, particularly because the AIADMK is presently in an alliance with the BJP, a party whose ideological stance is often at odds with Periyar’s Dravidian principles. The gesture has led to questions about whether Sengottaiyan is subtly critiquing the BJP and positioning himself closer to Dravidian parties like the DMK or even considering alternatives like the TVK.
According to AIADMK insiders, Sengottaiyan’s frustrations are rooted in a sense of marginalization within the party. He believes that senior leaders are not accorded due respect and that EPS makes decisions unilaterally, without adequate consultation. There is a growing perception that the party has been weakened by the exclusion of influential figures like TTV Dhinakaran, VK Sasikala, and O Panneerselvam. Sengottaiyan is said to have expressed concerns that without unity, the AIADMK’s prospects in upcoming elections—which he regards as existential—are bleak.
EPS Faces Delicate Balancing Act Amid Growing Dissent
For party chief Edappadi Palaniswami, Sengottaiyan’s impending speech presents a significant challenge. With the AIADMK already navigating internal fragility and electoral pressures, an open rebellion from a senior leader could not only disrupt stability but also undermine EPS’s authority. Sources suggest that EPS is cautious about escalating tensions and is likely seeking a measured approach to avoid public confrontation. However, Sengottaiyan’s resolve to break his silence indicates that the issues run deep, and managing this dissent may prove difficult in the long run.
Political observers note that EPS’s leadership is at a critical juncture. While he has thus far resisted efforts to reintegrate exiled leaders, the persistent discontent from veterans like Sengottaiyan highlights underlying strains within the party. How EPS addresses this situation—and what Sengottaiyan ultimately reveals on September 5—could have profound implications for the AIADMK’s future direction and cohesion.