What Does AIADMK Leader Sengottaiyan Mean by His Remarks on Unity?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Sengottaiyan's remarks aim to promote unity.
- Emphasis on the principles of Jayalalithaa and Anna.
- Internal reconciliation is key for the AIADMK's revival.
- The party faces challenges ahead of the 2026 elections.
- Support from party cadres has been strong.
Chennai, Sep 15 (NationPress) Former Minister and Gobichettipalayam MLA K.A. Sengottaiyan addressed the media on Monday, stating that his earlier remarks, which stirred controversy, were intended to promote unity within the AIADMK rather than incite division. He emphasized the need to uphold the principles of the late Jayalalithaa in Tamil Nadu.
He remarked that the robust support from party members in response to his call has reinforced his confidence in the party's future.
After paying homage to former Chief Minister C.N. Annadurai on his 117th birth anniversary, Sengottaiyan recalled Anna’s philosophy of “forget and forgive,” which he described as the cornerstone of the AIADMK.
“This party was established by M.G. Ramachandran in Anna’s honor and later fortified by Jayalalithaa. Their vision was to regain power, and we must strive for that vision to come to fruition,” he stated.
Sengottaiyan’s remarks were made in light of his statement on September 5, where he issued a 10-day ultimatum for the party leadership to initiate the re-admission process for former members.
Although the deadline has lapsed, he refrained from further comments but noted that the feedback from party supporters had been “overwhelming and encouraging.”
Reiterating his call for unity, the seasoned leader remarked, “Those who need clarity must seek it. For us to succeed in the upcoming 2026 Assembly elections, we must unite and work collaboratively.”
His earlier comments sparked significant reactions from the party's leadership.
In response, AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami dismissed Sengottaiyan from his roles as organization secretary and secretary for the Erode Suburban (West) district unit.
Additionally, several of Sengottaiyan’s close allies were also relieved of their party duties.
Furthermore, Sengottaiyan’s political maneuvers have drawn attention following his meeting with Union Ministers Amit Shah and Nirmala Sitharaman in New Delhi on September 8.
Sources within the party indicated that discussions revolved around internal challenges, though no official statements have been made.
As the countdown to the 2026 Assembly elections begins, Sengottaiyan’s stance suggests that fostering internal harmony could be vital for the AIADMK's resurgence and prospects of reclaiming power in Tamil Nadu.
aal/rad