Chennai: Reconciliation moves are underway in the AIADMK following the recent cabinet expansion by Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, which saw the induction of VCK and IUML members into the last two slots. This development has left the faction that revolted against party general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami (EPS) in a precarious position.
Negotiation Teams Formed
Sources indicate that both sides have established “negotiation teams” comprising party well-wishers to facilitate conciliation. The EPS group has demanded that the C Ve Shanmugam faction withdraw its representation to the Election Commission of India (ECI). In return, Shanmugam and S P Velumani are seeking the reinstatement of functionaries who were removed from party posts.
ECI Plea Under Scrutiny
The rebel camp had approached the ECI under Para 15 of the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968, which deals with splinter groups or rival sections of a recognized political party. A source from the rebel camp stated, “This plea can be withdrawn in the event of both groups coming together. There was no prayer to freeze the symbol.”
Velumani Denies Split
On Friday, shortly after the induction of VCK legislator Vanni Arasu and IUML legislator A M Shahjahan into the cabinet, Velumani asserted that there was no split within the AIADMK. He appealed to EPS to discuss and deliberate on the party’s election performance. Velumani emphasized that AIADMK MLAs had “no interest in cabinet berths” in the TVK-led government, a stance officially recorded during the vote of confidence. He criticized what he called a “sustained misinformation campaign” by mainstream and social media suggesting that the Shanmugam faction attempted to join the cabinet.
Rebels' Legal Options Explored
Multiple sources confirmed that the Shanmugam-Velumani faction had sought legal advice about joining the government and received approval due to their larger number of legislators compared to the EPS-led camp. However, TVK did not oblige their request.
Talks Intensify
With no other options, the AIADMK rebels have intensified discussions with leaders in the EPS camp. “EPS is willing to take them back, but he is not keen on revoking his order of stripping the district secretaries and other party postings of the rebel MLAs,” said a source familiar with the developments. EPS has also given the green signal to convene a high-level committee meeting to resolve differences and address internal issues.
Rebel Camp's Demands
Velumani and others in the rebel camp have expressed willingness to move forward but insist that EPS restore their party postings. “Shanmugam still wants the rebel team to demand a general council meeting and a change in leadership. But others are not willing to push for a general council or replace EPS as general secretary,” another source revealed.
Shift in Rebel Stance
A senior AIADMK leader and former minister from the western region, who is part of the rebel MLA camp, confirmed a shift in the rebels’ stand but declined to provide further details. “I will come to know about the latest developments only after talking to them tomorrow (Saturday),” the former minister said.
Optimism for Resolution
According to EPS associate and former minister Agri S S Krishnamurthy, the issues are expected to be amicably settled within a couple of days, as Palaniswami has invited the dissidents for talks. The reconciliation process appears to be gaining momentum, with both sides showing willingness to bridge their differences.
