Chennai, Nov 27 (NationPress) K.A. Sengottaiyan, a former minister and nine-time MLA, is set to switch allegiance to actor Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TRP) on Thursday, indicating a major shift in the political landscape of Tamil Nadu as the 2026 Assembly elections approach.

Sengottaiyan, who has been a member of the Assembly since 1977, has served for nine terms. His relationship with AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami soured after he advocated for the reinstatement of expelled members and called for unity among the party's factions.

This stance led to a significant backlash, resulting in his removal from all positions within the party. The political tension escalated when Sengottaiyan interacted with notable figures like V.K. Sasikala, O. Panneerselvam, and T.T.V. Dhinakaran during the Muthuramalinga Thevar Jayanthi celebrations in Pasumpon, Ramanathapuram district.

He later acknowledged that talks concerning the reunification of AIADMK factions occurred, further straining his ties with EPS.

Ultimately, Sengottaiyan was expelled from the party, along with many supporters. Amid growing speculation about his political future, he resigned from his MLA position on Wednesday morning.

Upon arriving at the Secretariat around 11 a.m., he presented his signed resignation to Speaker Appavu. When approached by the media, he cryptically stated, “Wait for one day,” before departing.

Shortly thereafter, Minister Shekhar Babu met with Sengottaiyan for nearly half an hour, raising speculation that the DMK might be courting him. Later, at his Alwarpet residence, Sengottaiyan removed the AIADMK flag from his vehicle, signaling his departure from the party.

By evening, the situation became more defined. TRP leader Vijay transitioned from his Neelankarai home to his Pattinapakkam residence to discuss strategy with party general secretary Bussy Anand and election management secretary Aadhav Arjuna.

At 4:30 p.m., Sengottaiyan arrived and engaged in a two-hour discussion with Vijay, where they candidly shared their political strategies and future visions.

Sengottaiyan is anticipated to arrive at the TVK office in Panaiyur today, along with his supporters, to officially join the party.

Reports indicate that he could be appointed to a prominent role—potentially as general secretary or chairman. His joining is expected to greatly enhance TVK's readiness for elections, alliance talks, and campaign strategies.

Political analysts suggest that his extensive experience will provide a strategic advantage to the new party.

Additionally, former Puducherry BJP president Saminathan is also likely to join TVK today, and former Karaikal MLA Hasan may join in Vijay’s presence, indicating swift political realignments in the region.

With Sengottaiyan’s inclusion, Tamil Nadu’s political scenario is poised for a considerable transformation as the state heads towards the 2026 Assembly elections.