Will Tamil Nadu Head For Early Elections?

Panneerselvam’s revolt against Sasikala has led to political instability in Tamil Nadu. Will either of them emerge victorious or will the state head for early elections?

- Lakshmi Subramanian

On the night of February 7, O. Panneerselvam made waves at the Marina Beach. The acting chief minister of Tamil Nadu came unannounced, sat at the Jayalalithaa memorial for about 40 minutes, and unleashed a political storm.

As his convoy reached the site, there was surprise among the visitors and AIADMK cadres. Panneerselvam, clad in a white shirt and matching dhoti, entered the memorial and started meditating. Suspense built, as did the crowd. After a while, he came out with folded hands and watery eyes to address the waiting media and cadres.

For the first time in his long political career, the soft-spoken leader revolted. “I was forced to resign,” he said. “I was made chief minister immediately after Amma’s [Jayalalithaa’s] death, but was continuously humiliated.” He criticised V.K. Sasikala, the AIADMK general secretary and Jayalalithaa’s confidante, and said he was kept in the dark about Jayalalithaa’s health while she was in Apollo Hospitals.

A few kilometres away, Poes Garden came alive. Sasikala, uncharacteristically, came out of her residence to talk to the media. Though she did not seem to be seething with anger, the unease was writ large on her face. “The AIADMK is as strong as ever,” she told the media at 1.30am. “Action will be taken against OPS. If required, he will be expelled from the party.” At 1.37am, a statement removing Panneerselvam as party treasurer was released to the media.

But, the drama had just begun. Cadres waited outside Sasikala’s home till 3.30am, till they were asked to leave. “I will meet you all soon,” she said in a confident voice.