With merger talks between the two AIADMK factions at the brink of a complete collapse, a fresh remark by former Chief Minister O Panneerselvam has increased the already existing divide.
Terming Panneerselvam's observation that a mid-term election was possible in few months as ‘unacceptable’, the ruling AIADMK faction claimed that such remarks were 'poisonous'. Finance Minister D Jayakumar further alleged that it revealed the other faction's true intention, which was to facilitate DMK's return to power, reports TNIE.
“All (ministers, MLAs, MPs and other functionaries) are working for winning another mandate in 2021 Assembly elections. But, Panneerselvam’s comments are mischievous and unacceptable. With this, he has made his true intentions clear - that deep in his heart, he wishes that this government formed by Amma should not last,” said finance minister D Jayakumar, according to TNIE.
These comments come even as merger talks get delayed, reportedly over the fight for the CM's post. The Finance Minister, who is a member of the negotiation committee however claimed that they were still ready for reconciliation talks, if the OPS camp came forward. Jayakumar however made sure to comment on the unfortunate nature of comments made by Panneerselvam who has the support of only a 'minuscule percentage' of functionaries.
The deepening rift and resentment between both factions was also displayed in Salem where Forests Minister C Sreenivasan hit out at Panneerselvam. "They are heeding the words of somebody else and thus acting in favour of the opposition. We don’t know what they are up to… They are acting with a motive not to hold merger talks. Besides, they have some problems within their faction,' he reportedly told the media there.
Panneerselvam made these 'poisonous' comments just before kick-starting his mass contact programme at Kottivakkam on Friday evening. He had alleged that the present regime is a benami government and that it lacked transparency. He further claimed that the party remains in the hands of the Mannargudi family as VK Sasikala continues to be its General Secretary and TTV Dhinakaran her deputy.
The former Chief Minister is going on a statewide tour to gather signatures from party cadre in support of his faction getting the two leaves symbol. The objective is reportedly to get close to 65 lakh signatures.