Congress leaders keenly observing Tamil Nadu power play

NEW DELHI: With just eight MLAs in 235-member Tamil Nadu assembly, AICC is keenly observing the Tamil Nadu power play. The developments within the AIADMK and ally DMK’s likely response are its focus areas.

Tamil Nadu PCC president Su Thirunavukkarasar and senior leader P Chidambaram reportedly discussed the situation with the Gandhis and senior AICC functionaries on Friday. The PCC chief, himself a former AIADMK leader, is not averse to idea of Congress tactically favouring Sasikala taking over the reins. There are indications that Sasikala’s husband M Natarajan had a hush-hush meeting with some senior AICC functionaries in the national capital before Sasikala staked claim to the CM’s post.

However, Chidambaram is reportedly critical of Sasikala’s takeover bid. AICC spokesman Veerappa Moily said the issue “is an internal matter of AIADMK” and demanded the governor follow the rules, especially the Bommai verdict.