AIADMK Stalwart Vaithilingam Joins DMK Amid Political Buzz

Former AIADMK Minister R Vaithilingam, a supporter of the ousted leader O Panneerselvam, has officially joined the ruling DMK. This move follows his resignation from AIADMK after being expelled in 2022. Vaithilingam was greeted by DMK leaders, marking a significant political shift in Tamil Nadu politics.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Chennai | Updated: 21-01-2026 12:02 IST | Created: 21-01-2026 12:02 IST
AIADMK Stalwart Vaithilingam Joins DMK Amid Political Buzz
Vaithilingam
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In a significant political move, former AIADMK Minister R Vaithilingam formally joined the ruling DMK on Wednesday. He was welcomed into the party in the presence of DMK President and Chief Minister M K Stalin at Anna Arivalayam.

Vaithilingam, known as a staunch supporter of expelled AIADMK leader O Panneerselvam, presented a shawl to Stalin, marking his induction into the DMK. The ceremony was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin and senior DMK leaders such as K N Nehru and TKS Elangovan.

The political circles had been rife with speculation about Vaithilingam's switch, especially after he reportedly resigned as a legislator from Orathanad. His entry into DMK, accompanied by his supporters, underscores a shift in Tamil Nadu's political landscape following his expulsion from AIADMK in 2022.

(With inputs from agencies.)

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