In Chennai, AMMK leader TTV Dhinakaran made a significant statement on Thursday, a day after finalizing a poll agreement with the AIADMK-led NDA alliance for the upcoming assembly election. He firmly dismissed any plans to "capture" the AIADMK, stating he has moved past the "injustices" he previously faced.
Commitment to Amma's Legacy
Dhinakaran emphasized his dedication to the memory of former chief minister J Jayalalithaa, known as Amma. "I established a party that honors Amma in its name and flag. I am satisfied seeing my flag wave proudly across Tamil Nadu. My primary aim is to reinstate Amma's rule," he declared. He explained to TOI that his mission is to spread the ideals and principles championed by Jayalalithaa to the public.
Healing Past Rifts
Addressing previous conflicts, Dhinakaran acknowledged, "It's true I once vowed to reclaim what was rightfully mine due to betrayals. However, I will never attempt to take over AIADMK. I hold no anger towards anyone." He assured that he has given his word not to seek control of AIADMK, framing the discord between AIADMK and its splinter groups as an internal family dispute, akin to a pangali sandai or inter-clan struggle.
Drawing wisdom from the ancient Tamil text Thirukkural, Dhinakaran shared his belief in responding to harm with goodness, highlighting a philosophical approach to resolving political tensions.
Upcoming NDA Engagement
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 pivotal moment, considering Dhinakaran's exit from the NDA in September, citing betrayals at that time.
Alliance Dynamics and Future Prospects
Historical context shows that efforts by BJP leadership to integrate AMMK into the NDA fold during the 2021 assembly election were thwarted by strong opposition from Palaniswami. Ahead of this year's election, the AIADMK leadership has conveyed to the BJP that it has no objections to AMMK joining the alliance, signaling a shift in political alignments.
Asserting his commitment to leading AMMK forward, Dhinakaran posed, "What would become of my party if I returned to AIADMK? How could I dismantle my flag? I will not carry another." He added that he will not tarnish the reputation of Jayalalithaa, who introduced him to politics, underscoring his respect for her legacy.
Praise for National Leadership
Dhinakaran expressed admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister Amit Shah, pledging to collaborate towards restoring the 'Jayalalithaa regime'. He articulated his political philosophy, stating, "I will never chase power. My principle is that power should come to me. One must cultivate the necessary qualities for that."
This stance reflects a strategic focus on building influence through principles rather than aggressive takeovers, as Tamil Nadu gears up for a crucial electoral battle.
