TTV Dhinakaran Denies AIADMK Takeover Ambitions, Stresses Commitment to Jayalalithaa's Ideals
In a significant political development in Chennai, AMMK chief TTV Dhinakaran has firmly dismissed any intentions of capturing the AIADMK, a day after finalizing a poll agreement with the AIADMK-led NDA alliance for the forthcoming Tamil Nadu assembly election. Speaking on Thursday, Dhinakaran emphasized that he has moved past the injustices he faced and is solely focused on restoring the legacy of former chief minister J Jayalalithaa, whom he reverently refers to as Amma.
Content with AMMK's Identity and Flag
Dhinakaran articulated his satisfaction with the AMMK's distinct identity, stating, I floated a party that carries Amma in its name and flag. I am content with my flag flying high across Tamil Nadu. My sole objective is to restore Amma's rule. He elaborated that his mission is to propagate the ideals and principles championed by Jayalalithaa to the masses, rather than seeking control over the AIADMK. Despite acknowledging past betrayals that led him to declare reclaiming what was due, he affirmed, I will never capture AIADMK. I am not angry with anyone.
Internal Conflict Viewed as Family Dispute
Characterizing the rift between AIADMK and its breakaway factions, Dhinakaran described it as an internal conflict within a joint family, akin to a pangali sandai or inter-clan fight. He invoked wisdom from the ancient Tamil text Thirukkural, citing the couplet that advocates responding to harm with goodness as the best form of retribution. This philosophical approach underscores his commitment to a reconciliatory stance in the political arena.
Upcoming NDA Event and Past Alliance Dynamics
Dhinakaran revealed plans to meet AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami at an NDA event on Friday, which will be led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This meeting marks a notable shift, as Dhinakaran had exited the NDA in September, citing betrayals. Historical context shows that efforts by BJP leadership to integrate AMMK into the NDA fold during the 2021 assembly election were thwarted by strong resistance from Palaniswami. However, ahead of this year's election, the AIADMK leadership has conveyed to the BJP that it has no objections to AMMK joining the alliance, facilitating this renewed collaboration.
Steadfast Leadership and Future Vision
Asserting his dedication to leading AMMK, Dhinakaran questioned, What will happen to my party if I return to AIADMK? How can I dismantle my flag? I will not hold another flag. He pledged to uphold the honor of Jayalalithaa, who introduced him to politics, and praised the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union minister Amit Shah. Dhinakaran expressed his goal of working towards reinstating the Jayalalithaa regime, adhering to a principle where power should come to him naturally, rather than him pursuing it aggressively. I will never go in search of power. My principle is that power should come to me. One must develop the qualities necessary for that, he concluded, highlighting a strategic and principled approach to political influence.
