Is Former AIADMK Minister Sengottaiyan Joining Vijay’s TVK?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Sengottaiyan's political transition signifies potential shifts in Tamil Nadu politics.
- Internal conflicts within AIADMK led to his expulsion.
- His history with J. Jayalalithaa highlights his political significance.
- Upcoming announcements could reshape alliances before the 2026 elections.
- Vijay's TVK is gaining traction as a political force.
Chennai, Nov 25 (NationPress) Former AIADMK minister and prominent figure K.A. Sengottaiyan is poised for a significant political transition, with strong indications that he will become a member of actor Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) this week.
The situation follows weeks of unrest within the AIADMK and a series of confrontations with the party’s leadership.
The controversy ignited on September 5 when Sengottaiyan conducted a press briefing advocating for the AIADMK to reconcile and reinstate members expelled in recent years.
His comments sparked considerable discontent within the party, leading to general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) revoking all his organizational roles.
The situation escalated on September 30, when Sengottaiyan attended the Thevar Guru Pooja in Madurai alongside AMMK general secretary T.T.V. Dhinakaran and former chief minister O. Panneerselvam. This public appearance with leaders viewed as rivals to EPS was interpreted as an outright defiance, culminating in Sengottaiyan’s expulsion from the AIADMK.
In the midst of this turmoil, reports surfaced indicating that Sengottaiyan was in advanced discussions with Vijay’s TVK.
Sources reveal that senior TVK officials Adhavan Arjunan and strategist John Arokyasamy recently met with him to explore the potential for his induction.
Conversations between Sengottaiyan and Vijay are reportedly nearing their conclusion, with an announcement anticipated soon after their meeting. Sengottaiyan is expected to travel to Chennai tonight from Coimbatore and may resign from his MLA position on the 26th.
His official entry into TVK is expected on the 27th, in the presence of Vijay. However, TVK leaders have yet to provide any public confirmation, adding an element of intrigue to the ongoing developments.
Sengottaiyan’s potential transition carries significant political weight, given his long-standing influence in Tamil Nadu’s western region. A seven-time MLA from Gobbichettipalayam, he has held key ministerial positions including School Education, Information Technology, and Agriculture.
A confidant of the late J. Jayalalithaa for many years, he is recognized for his strong organizational skills and sway across the western belt. His increasing dissatisfaction with the AIADMK leadership marks a notable shift from his historically steadfast loyalty.
Meanwhile, EPS is scheduled to host a public meeting on the 30th in Gobbichettipalayam, Sengottaiyan’s own constituency. Political analysts suggest that Sengottaiyan may formally announce his next move before this rally, a decision that could significantly reshape the political landscape in the region as the 2026 Assembly elections approach.