In a significant development in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape, former state education minister KA Sengottaiyan has announced his intention to challenge his recent expulsion from the AIADMK party through legal means. Sengottaiyan stated that he believes the expulsion was not in line with the party’s established laws and principles.
He further voiced his strong disapproval of the leadership style of AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami, accusing him of acting like a dictator and making decisions that go against the party’s constitution. Sengottaiyan highlighted the party’s founding principles, emphasizing that the General Secretary should be elected by the cadres, a process he feels is being undermined.
Sengottaiyan recounted his long association with the party, spanning over 53 years, and expressed his deep sorrow and personal hurt over the expulsion. He mentioned shedding tears and being unable to sleep after the decision, underscoring his emotional distress.
He also touched upon the internal party dynamics, referencing past leadership transitions and alliances, and suggested that Palaniswami’s actions might be influenced by external factors. Sengottaiyan alluded to the Kodanad case and the perceived silence from party leadership on certain issues.
Responding to the expulsion, Edappadi K. Palaniswami defended the decision as being in accordance with party law. He cited Sengottaiyan’s alleged proximity to expelled leaders and his actions as detrimental to the party’s strength and unity.
Palaniswami stated that the party leadership could not remain a silent spectator when its principles were being challenged and that Sengottaiyan was accused of maintaining contact with individuals who had previously been expelled, thus violating party discipline.