TN: Both AIADMK factions to merge after OPS, EPS meet with Modi

Chennai: Stage is now set for the merger of two factions of the AIADMK with the camp led by Chief Minister Edappadi K Palanisamy openly declaring that TTV Dhinakaran, who was appointed as deputy general secretary by his aunt VK Sasikala, holds no post in the party. 

A resolution signed by 26 office bearers of the AIADMK, including Palanisamy, asked party cadre to ignore appointments made by Dhinakaran, who they accused of creating confusion in the party. The resolution also noted that Sasikala's appointment as General Secretary after the death of J Jayalalithaa has also been challenged before the Election Commission. 

"We called Amma as the permanent general secretary of the AIADMK and we would like to continue with our proclamation," the resolution said.

The major development is that O Panneerselvam will not be the general secretary of the party, but will lead the committee that would take care of the party and coordinate with the government. In the committee, three members from each of the factions would be nominated. 

The merger would formally take shape after OPS and EPS meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Friday. Both leaders are expected to appear before the media most likely on Saturday in Chennai. 

Though there are few elements in the party who support Dhinakaran, soon they will be "disciplined", party insiders said.

The meeting of ministers and top leaders on Thursday were convened to work out the modalities before finalising the pact in New Delhi.

Senior ministers including KA Sengottaiyan P Thangamani, SP Velumani, Dindigul C Seenivasan, D Jayakumar and other key functionaries attended the meeting.

The BJP leadership has been keen on the merger of the two factions and has pressed both the groups to complete the merger talks as early as possible. The Chief Minister on Monday said he expected to see the merger very soon and his comments had come after the AIADMK (PTA) complained that the ruling group had not shown interest in the merger.

According to party sources, merger talks made much progress after AIADMK (Amma) deputy general secretary Dhinakaran made arbitrary appointments for many of his supporters in the party, besides releasing a schedule of campaign tour.

There is intense pressure on both the groups since no one wants a general election and wanted to save the government. Dhinakaran had taken up the authority of making appointments for the party and said he had been authorised to make such moves by Sasikala.