Unity call sparks fresh rift in AIADMK

New Delhi: Continuous setbacks in elections have once again triggered calls for unity within the AIADMK in Tamil Nadu. Senior leader K.A. Sengottaiyan on Friday held a press conference demanding that party general secretary E. Palaniswami take steps to bring back leaders such as O. Panneerselvam, V.K. Sasikala and others into the party fold to ensure victory in the 2026 assembly elections.

The nine-time MLA even set a 10-day ultimatum, warning that if no action was taken, several like-minded leaders within the AIADMK would attempt to unite on their own. His demand was welcomed by OPS, Sasikala and other leaders. Sources told ET that even the BJP favoured reconciliation among AIADMK factions.

However, EPS-who has so far managed to stifle such moves-responded with swift action, removing Sengottaiyan from all key party posts. His supporters were also stripped of their district-level roles.


Party sources said the crisis is far from over. Even if EPS has sought to send a strong message against unity talks, sections within the AIADMK are expected to continue efforts. The party has suffered poor performances in one assembly election and two consecutive Lok Sabha elections, deepening the internal rift.