In a significant political development in Tamil Nadu, expelled AIADMK leader O Panneerselvam, commonly known as OPS, has publicly declared his readiness for the reunification of the fractured AIADMK factions. On Thursday, he issued a pointed challenge to AMMK chief TTV Dhinakaran and his former colleague Edappadi K Palaniswami, questioning their preparedness for such a move.
A Sarcastic Challenge to Political Rivals
"I am ready for that. Are they ready?" OPS asked reporters with a distinct sarcastic edge, directly addressing Dhinakaran and Palaniswami, whom he referred to as "his beloved brother." This challenge comes despite EPS having previously rejected proposals for OPS's re-entry into the party fold.
OPS elaborated on the dynamics, stating, "Dhinakaran is insisting on joining hands, and I am also insisting on it. So, he must first speak to his beloved brother (EPS) and press for it. When two bitter rivals like Dhinakaran and EPS can close ranks, what stops my reunion in the AIADMK?"
Confidence in Electoral Victory
He expressed strong confidence that such a reunification would ensure a massive victory for the AIADMK in future elections. This statement was in response to Dhinakaran's recent remark that OPS had the best opportunity to return to the NDA and help re-establish the AIADMK regime in Tamil Nadu.
Dismissing Rumors and Secret Talks
When questioned about reported discussions with BJP's Tamil Nadu in-charge Piyush Goyal and a purported offer of two seats under the AIADMK-led NDA alliance, OPS sidestepped the queries, labeling the matter as "parama ragasiyam" or a profound secret. This has fueled further speculation about behind-the-scenes political negotiations.
Clarification on Political Intentions
OPS also firmly ruled out the possibility of contesting the upcoming assembly polls under the banner of the AIADMK Cadres' Rights Retrieval Kazhagam. He explained that the committee, which later evolved into a Kazhagam, was formed with a singular objective: to restore the rights of party cadres and uphold the by-laws established by founder M G Ramachandran.
"We have been continuing our legal battle for years to achieve this. We have no intention of turning the Kazhagam into a political party," he asserted, justifying his decision to contest the 2024 Lok Sabha polls as an Independent candidate under the jackfruit symbol.
Testing Cadre Support and Allegations
He described this independent candidacy as a strategic move to "test the cadres' support" for his reunification cause. OPS claimed that functionaries from 88 district units who attended a meeting at Periyakulam in Theni "strongly supported" his stand, despite his request for written submissions of their views. Most participants hailed from Theni and Ramanathapuram districts.
Allegations of Political Conspiracy
OPS did not hold back in alleging a conspiracy to politically sideline him, stating that "everyone knows about the conspiracy." He specifically accused "five O Panneerselvams from outside the constituency" of being fielded against him in elections, a move he views as deliberate obstruction.
He also pointed fingers at his former supporters, Manoj Pandian and R Vaithilingam, who have now joined the DMK, accusing them of triggering the second "Dharmayutham" in February 2023. This reference likely alludes to internal party conflicts or disciplinary actions.
Dismissing Speculation on Party Alliances
When asked about potential alliances with actor Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) or the ruling DMK, the former Chief Minister dismissed such speculation as "mere rumours" propagated by certain media sections. Expressing frustration, he questioned, "Don't you feel sorry for us? Why spread such untruths to build a false narrative?"
This comprehensive statement from OPS highlights the ongoing turbulence within Tamil Nadu's political landscape, particularly concerning the AIADMK's internal divisions and the broader alliances shaping up for future electoral battles.
