Robbed of 'two leaves', the way forward for AIADMK: OPS+EKP - VKS?

Some ministers have claimed that "nothing happens in the government with Dinakaran's nod."

Chennai: While a majority of AIADMK MLAs had stood by VK Sasikala when she decimated all opposition in her fight for Jayalalithaa's throne, reports now suggest that party leaders are keen to work out a patch-up between Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami and O Panneerselvam.

As per a report in the TOI, party leaders is worried that the split in the party into two factions and the loss of the 'two leaves' symbol of the AIADMK would lead to the decimation of the party in coming elections.

Interestingly, the report adds, the attempts to build bridges between the two sides is being done without the knowledge of jailed 'Chinnamma' VK Sasikala or her nephew TTV Dhinakaran, who is said to be now controlling the Palaniswami government with an iron fist.

Those in favour of a merger of the factions – excluding the Sasikala family – point out that there are no problems between the current CM and OPS; everybody understands that his rebellion was against Sasikala, they argue.

As per the reports, many MLAs and ministers are upset with the current scenario where “nothing happens in the government with Dhinakaran's nod.”

Part leaders opposed to Dhinakaran, who was expelled by Jayalalithaa before he was taken back in the party fold by Sasikala after Amma's death, are waiting for the RK Nagar bypoll results before making their next move.

RK Nagar seat fell vacant after Jayalalithaa and is now being contested by Dhinakaran, as he aims to enter the assembly.

However, Dhinakaran is facing a tough time convincing the electorate of his worth. And, sensing anger among the people against his aunt Sasikala, he is carefully avoiding any mention of her in his public speeches during campaigning.

Reports from the ground have claimed the RK Nagar fight is primarily between DMK and OPS faction.

If Dhinakaran ends up losing the elections, the rebels will get the wind beneath their wings and may make a decisive move to unite OPS and EKP, while keeping VK Sasikala (VKS) out of the party and power matrix.