Several former AIADMK ministers, MLAs, and party cadres formally joined the C Joseph Vijay-led Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) on Thursday at a mass induction programme, signaling a significant shift in Tamil Nadu politics. The event saw hundreds of district-level functionaries and grassroots workers participate, highlighting a broader realignment of political loyalties ahead of future electoral contests.
Key Defections and Political Impact
Among those who joined TVK were former AIADMK ministers C Vijayabaskar, MR Vijayabaskar, MSM Anandan, and Valarmathi. Political observers view this as a major boost for the ruling party, which continues to expand its organisational network across the state. The defections come amid internal challenges within the AIADMK following recent electoral setbacks.
Tamil Nadu minister and former AIADMK leader Stalwart Sengottiyan welcomed the new entrants, praising Chief Minister Vijay's leadership. "When I was thrown out of my party, our leader (Vijay) made me a minister now. You (AIADMK cadres) all felt bad when AIADMK tried to make an alliance with DMK, the enemy of AIADMK. There is no betrayal here but it's there (AIADMK). You all have come where great leadership is there. Our leader is a permanent CM," he said.
DMK's Criticism
DMK MP Kanimozhi took a swipe at the developments, describing them as an example of a "washing machine" model of politics. In a post on X, she questioned whether a similar political strategy seen elsewhere in the country was now emerging in Tamil Nadu. "I heard that a 'washing machine' of the kind the BJP used to employ in the North has now arrived in Tamil Nadu too. They say this new Tamil Nadu model machine can even wash away gutka stains... Is that true?" she asked.
The latest defections are expected to further strengthen TVK's political position, adding experienced leaders to its ranks as the party prepares for upcoming electoral battles.
