Political Tremors in Tamil Nadu: Panneerselvam's DMK Move Sparks Controversy

Tamil Nadu BJP Vice President Jayaprakash warns DMK of internal upheaval after ex-AIADMK leader O Panneerselvam joins the party, potentially altering its power dynamics. Dissenters from Panneerselvam's faction express pain over the decision, viewing it as a betrayal of MGR and Jayalalithaa's legacy.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Updated: 28-02-2026 10:23 IST | Created: 28-02-2026 10:23 IST
Political Tremors in Tamil Nadu: Panneerselvam's DMK Move Sparks Controversy
Tamil Nadu BJP Vice President Jayaprakash (Photo/ANI). Image Credit: ANI
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In a move that has sent ripples through the political landscape of Tamil Nadu, former AIADMK leader O Panneerselvam has joined the ruling DMK, igniting concerns about potential shifts in the party's power structure. Tamil Nadu BJP Vice President Jayaprakash issued a stern warning to DMK, predicting internal repercussions following this significant realignment.

Panneerselvam, who was expelled from AIADMK amid a leadership conflict in 2022, joined the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) alongside his son, ahead of upcoming Assembly elections. The induction took place under the aegis of DMK chief and Chief Minister MK Stalin, prompting a political churn. Jayaprakash suggests that the original DMK members, who have long fought against icons like MGR and Jayalalithaa, now face an internal challenge.

Meanwhile, the decision has not sat well with Panneerselvam's supporters, causing dissent. Followers express their distress, recalling the early legacy of AIADMK founders MG Ramachandran and J Jayalalithaa. Esadurai, a loyalist, declared the move as a betrayal, urging followers to adhere to the principles established by their party's forebears.

(With inputs from agencies.)

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