AIADMK crisis: Fresh war of words between Dhinakaran, Palaniswamy camps
What's the story
The AIADMK's internal war reached new heights as both warring factions- one under Edappadi Palaniswamy and another led by TTV Dhinakaran- leveled accusations at each other.
The fresh war of words was triggered after Deputy General Secretary Dhinakaran announced new office-bearers two days ago, giving posts to his supporters.
"Those betraying the party won't be pardoned by the people," responded Palaniswamy supporter D Jayakumar.
Allegations
Jayalalithaa's soul won't pardon 'traitors', says Palaniswamy supporter Jayakumar
Though Palaniswamy himself reportedly didn't respond to the development, Finance Minister Jayakumar said Jayalalithaa's soul won't pardon 'traitors'.
He also questioned the powers of the deputy general secretary since there's already a complaint against VK Sasikala's appointment as general secretary.
"When the posting of general secretary is under question, the deputy general secretary's post should be considered null and void," he said.
Response
Dhinakaran doesn't want a separate faction: The other side responds
In response, Dhinakaran supporter P Vetrivel asked all AIADMK ministers to "wear a saree" for sidelining Dhinakaran.
Thoppu Venkatachalam, appointed organizing secretary, claimed Dhinakaran didn't want to nurture a separate faction. "New office-bearers have been appointed to revive the party and infuse fresh blood."
He also termed Jayakumar's attacks his "personal view". "One must note that EPS has not said a word against Dhinakaran."
Status
Is Dhinakaran in a fix? Sources claim so
According to sources, Dhinakaran wanted to win back the support of all AIADMK ministers by putting pressure on Palaniswamy indirectly. However, Palaniswamy's tough stance has him rethinking his decisions.
Meanwhile, Palaniswamy is confident Dhinakaran won't attempt to break the government, "hence he is not ready to budge".
To make matters worse for Dhinakaran, few of his own supporters have refused to accept the new posts.