Rift in AIADMK: Leadership Battle Intensifies

The AIADMK is embroiled in a deepening leadership crisis as internal divisions flare up. On Tuesday, dissent grew with accusations from a faction, spearheaded by senior leaders SP Velumani and C Ve Shanmugam, against party chief Edappadi K Palaniswami. They claim Palaniswami is seeking an alliance with archrival DMK to maintain power, a move considered contrary to AIADMK's foundational principles.

This faction, including about 30 MLAs, has expressed its support for the C Joseph Vijay-led TVK government, ahead of a crucial floor test on Wednesday. This development follows the AIADMK's disappointing results in the April 23 elections, where they secured only 47 out of 164 seats.

The leadership conflict has sparked speculations about a potential party split. The opposition camp demands a thorough review of the electoral defeat and a revamp of party strategies. Meanwhile, Palaniswami's supporters, via social media, refute these claims as falsehoods and highlight his role in maintaining the party's stature.

(With inputs from agencies.)