AIADMK merger talks remain non-starter

CHENNAI: The two AIADMK factions today failed to break the ice over commencement of merger talks, with the rebel group firm on removal of party chief VK Sasikala and her deputy TTV Dhinakaran, besides a CBI probe into J Jayalalithaa's death.

Though the faction led by Chief Minister EK Palaniswami said the doors were open for talks, the O Pannerselvam camp made it clear that the preconditions set by it would have to be met first.

"We are ready. We have told them the preconditions. Talks won't happen unless they meet them. Thats the fact," Panneerselvam aide and former Minister K Pandiarajan told reporters here.

Pandiarajan's comments came hours after leaders of the Palaniswami camp said they were ready for talks and the "doors are open."

"As mentioned earlier, the doors are open.. if they come for talks we are ready (to hold discussions)", Finance Minister D Jayakumar said, noting that both sides had constituted committees to discuss the matter.