Why Did Former TN CM Palaniswami Criticize Ex-AIADMK Leaders Maitreyan and Anwar Raajhaa Over Their Defections?
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Synopsis
In a recent press conference, Edappadi K. Palaniswami, the AIADMK General Secretary, fiercely rebuked ex-party leaders for their party-switching actions. His comments come alongside significant political shifts in Tamil Nadu, raising questions about loyalty and future alliances ahead of elections.
Key Takeaways
- Palaniswami's strong criticism of former leaders highlights party loyalty issues.
- The recent defections may impact AIADMK's electoral strategies.
- Political realignments are shaping Tamil Nadu's political landscape.
- Concerns over international trade tariffs reflect broader economic issues.
- AIADMK aims to consolidate power ahead of the 2026 elections.
Chennai, Aug 13 (NationPress) AIADMK General Secretary and Leader of the Opposition in the Tamil Nadu Assembly, Edappadi K. Palaniswami, took a strong stance on Wednesday against former party figures A. Anwhar Raajhaa and V. Maitreyan, accusing them of lacking political loyalty and switching parties for personal ambitions.
During an interaction with the media in Tirupattur as part of his state-wide tour, Palaniswami expressed his displeasure regarding the recent political shift, which saw former Rajya Sabha MP V. Maitreyan joining the ruling DMK in the presence of Chief Minister M.K. Stalin at Anna Arivalayam in Chennai earlier that day.
Shortly thereafter, the Leader of the Opposition officially declared Maitreyan's expulsion from the AIADMK, asserting that their actions were a confirmation of his views on both leaders.
"In a democratic nation, individuals have the liberty to join any party they prefer. However, these two have never remained with a single party for an extended period. We are aware of the true reasons behind their departures from the AIADMK," he remarked, hinting at internal conflicts and ideological differences as contributing factors.
Maitreyan, who was once a close confidant of the late Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa, had served three terms in the Rajya Sabha with an AIADMK ticket. However, his influence diminished following Jayalalithaa's passing, leading to various political affiliations, including a stint with the BJP, before his recent transition to the DMK.
In July, another prominent figure, Anwhar Raajhaa, a former Labour Minister in the AIADMK government from 2001 to 2003, also made the decision to join the DMK in Chennai.
Dismissive of these defections, LoP Palaniswami asserted that the AIADMK-BJP-led alliance would grow stronger ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.
He suggested that new parties would join their coalition, stating, "Like-minded parties will align with us in the upcoming months. We will determine the composition of our alliance, which will operate under our leadership."
Focusing on national concerns, the former Chief Minister criticized the United States for imposing a steep 50% tariff on Indian imports, labeling the action as unfair and detrimental to India's economy.
"We are completely opposed to this tariff. The Central government must take decisive actions to amicably resolve this issue and protect India’s trade interests," he emphasized.
Palaniswami's comments reflect his determination to establish the AIADMK as a central figure in a robust opposition alliance while downplaying the significance of high-profile exits, positioning himself as a prominent voice on national economic matters.
Point of View
The recent criticisms from Edappadi K. Palaniswami highlight the ongoing volatility within regional party politics. Despite the defections, the AIADMK's strategy to consolidate its base and strengthen alliances with the BJP reflects a broader trend of political realignment in India. These developments warrant close attention as they may significantly influence the upcoming electoral landscape.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Edappadi K. Palaniswami say about the defections?
Palaniswami criticized former AIADMK leaders for lacking political loyalty and switching parties for personal gain, emphasizing that their actions confirmed his views on their unreliability.
Who are the ex-AIADMK leaders mentioned?
The ex-AIADMK leaders mentioned are A. Anwhar Raajhaa and V. Maitreyan, both of whom have recently joined the DMK.
What is the significance of Maitreyan's switch to DMK?
Maitreyan's switch to the DMK represents a significant defection from the AIADMK, especially given his past as a close aide of J. Jayalalithaa and his long tenure in the Rajya Sabha.
What are Palaniswami's views on the future of the AIADMK?
Palaniswami believes the AIADMK-BJP alliance will emerge stronger ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections and hinted at new parties joining their coalition.
How did Palaniswami address national economic concerns?
He criticized the U.S. for imposing a 50% tariff on Indian imports, calling it unfair and detrimental to India's economy, and urged the Central government to address the issue.
