AIADMK Leadership Crisis: A Rebel Surge Against Palaniswami

AIADMK, led by Edappadi K Palaniswami, faces a potential split as 30 MLAs, led by SP Velumani and C Ve Shanmugam, oppose Palaniswami's alleged alliance with DMK, supporting the rival Vijay-led government. The dissent signifies internal party tensions, reminiscent of past power struggles following leaders' deaths.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Chennai | Updated: 12-05-2026 16:02 IST | Created: 12-05-2026 16:02 IST
AIADMK Leadership Crisis: A Rebel Surge Against Palaniswami
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The AIADMK, Tamil Nadu's major opposition party, faces turbulence as a faction of MLAs has openly challenged the leadership of Edappadi K Palaniswami. The rebels, led by SP Velumani and C Ve Shanmugam, allege that Palaniswami seeks an alliance with the DMK, undermining the party's core principles.

This dissent comes in the wake of the party's poor performance in the recent assembly elections, where it secured only 47 out of 164 seats. The rebel group has declared its support for the Vijay-led government ahead of a critical floor test, raising questions about AIADMK's unity and future direction.

In response, the AIADMK leadership has dismissed these claims as baseless rumors and reasserted its support for Palaniswami, emphasizing the strength and loyalty of its cadre. Meanwhile, the DMK denies any alliance talks, accusing dissident leaders of attempting to sow discord within their party.

(With inputs from agencies.)

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