Is Palaniswami Heading to Delhi Amid AIADMK's Power Struggle?
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Synopsis
As the power struggle within AIADMK escalates, General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami's upcoming trip to Delhi for talks with Amit Shah could significantly impact the party's future. With rising tensions and internal conflicts, will this meeting reshape the political landscape in Tamil Nadu?
Key Takeaways
- AIADMK faces a leadership crisis impacting party unity.
- Edappadi K. Palaniswami is set for strategic talks in Delhi.
- K.A. Sengottaiyan's defiance raises questions about party allegiance.
- The BJP's influence on AIADMK is growing.
- Upcoming Assembly elections add urgency to the situation.
Chennai, Sep 15 (NationPress) The leadership turmoil in the AIADMK has reached a critical juncture, as General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) is scheduled to head to Delhi on Tuesday (September 16) for discussions with Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
This trip arises amid escalating tensions between Palaniswami and senior party member K.A. Sengottaiyan, jeopardizing the party’s unity.
Although the official purpose of the visit is to congratulate newly elected Rajya Sabha Vice-Chairman C.P. Radhakrishnan, insiders within the AIADMK highlight the significant political implications of this journey.
The party has been shaken by Sengottaiyan’s defiance and his recent engagement with senior BJP leaders, leading to speculations regarding the party's influence over its operations.
Sengottaiyan, previously a prominent organizer in the western districts, was stripped of his party roles earlier this month after giving Palaniswami a 10-day ultimatum for the reinduction of expelled members. Shortly after, he announced a visit to Haridwar, claiming it was for “spiritual solace.” However, he made a stop in Delhi on his return, where he met with Amit Shah and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
Sengottaiyan confirmed these meetings, revealing that AIADMK internal affairs were discussed, a disclosure that has unsettled EPS’s supporters and reignited claims from the DMK that AIADMK is increasingly yielding to BJP pressure. This series of events has placed Palaniswami in a precarious situation.
While he has fortified his position within the party since sidelining rival O. Panneerselvam, the BJP, which formalized its electoral alliance with the AIADMK in April, is reportedly urging him to reconcile with dissident factions ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.
Sources close to EPS assert that he will resist any actions that threaten his authority, though they concede that pressure from Delhi is undeniable.
Meanwhile, Palaniswami’s campaign in Dharmapuri, initially set for September 17 and 18, has been rescheduled to September 28 and 29. In contrast, Sengottaiyan has taken a cautious stance, merely stating that he would “remain” when questioned about the potential for expulsion.
With the focus now on Delhi, Palaniswami’s discussions with Amit Shah could be crucial, shaping not only the path of his leadership but also the dynamics of the BJP-AIADMK alliance in the politically charged landscape of Tamil Nadu.
Point of View
The ongoing turmoil within the AIADMK signifies deeper political dynamics at play within Tamil Nadu. The interplay between party leadership and external pressures from the BJP highlights the complexity of maintaining party unity while addressing electoral strategies for the upcoming assembly elections.
NationPress
16/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of Palaniswami's trip to Delhi?
The official purpose is to greet Rajya Sabha Vice-Chairman C.P. Radhakrishnan, but it holds significant political implications amid party tensions.
What issues is AIADMK currently facing?
AIADMK is grappling with internal conflicts, particularly between Edappadi K. Palaniswami and K.A. Sengottaiyan, which threaten the party's unity.
How is the BJP influencing AIADMK?
The BJP is believed to be pressuring AIADMK to reconcile with dissenting factions ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.
What does Sengottaiyan's behavior suggest?
Sengottaiyan's meetings with BJP leaders indicate a possible shift in influence and raise concerns about AIADMK's independence.
When is Palaniswami's campaign rescheduled?
Palaniswami's campaign in Dharmapuri has been postponed to September 28 and 29.
