Chennai, Feb 10 (NationPress) V.K. Sasikala is poised to enter the fray by fielding candidates in selected constituencies for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, representing a renewed effort to reclaim her political stature in the state.

Insider sources indicate that the former close associate of the late Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa is gearing up to assess her political influence, especially in the southern districts and the Thevar region, where she reportedly maintains a dedicated support base.

Her candidates are expected to run under the banner of the Anna Dravidiar Kazhagam, a political party established in 2018 by her sibling, V.K. Divakaran.

This initiative is perceived as a tactical move aimed at carving an independent political niche after years of being sidelined in Tamil Nadu's rapidly changing electoral scenario.

Sasikala has been engaging in extensive discussions with loyalists and former party officials to gauge grassroots support and determine the extent of her electoral participation. To kickstart this initiative, she is reportedly planning a public gathering in Kallakurichi district during the second week of February to rally her supporters and announce her revived political ambitions.

An official declaration regarding her future plans is anticipated on February 24, coinciding with Jayalalithaa’s birth anniversary—an occasion of significant emotional resonance for her followers.

Analysts suggest that this timing is strategically chosen to evoke the legacy of the late leader and reconnect with AIADMK cadres who still perceive Sasikala as a part of that political heritage. Her renewed efforts come amidst a tumultuous political journey. Once viewed as a formidable figure within the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, Sasikala briefly held the position of interim general secretary following Jayalalithaa’s passing in 2016. However, her political journey faced severe challenges after her conviction in a disproportionate assets case, leading to a four-year prison sentence and her expulsion from the party.

Currently, AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami has categorically dismissed any possibility of her return to the party.

Furthermore, her relationship with her nephew T.T.V. Dhinakaran remains strained, with multiple Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam officials expelled for maintaining ties with her.

Efforts to forge alliances with either the AIADMK or the National Democratic Alliance, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party, have not gained momentum thus far.

As the 2026 elections draw near, Sasikala’s decision to field candidates may determine if she can re-establish herself as a significant political player or if she will remain marginalized in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape.