Salem, October 1 (Daily Kiran) : M. Semmalai, a former minister in Tamil Nadu, has indicated that more leaders may depart from the AIADMK party due to ongoing neglect by its leadership. Speaking at a press conference in Salem, Semmalai expressed his concerns over the party’s direction since 2017, claiming it has become a “limited company” under the control of Edappadi K. Palaniswami.
During a recent election rally in Dharapuram, Semmalai joined the Tamil Maanila Congress (TMC) in the presence of actor-turned-politician Vijay, who welcomed him with a party shawl. Semmalai praised Vijay as a selfless leader and capable administrator, noting his ability to connect with people by positioning himself as a member of every family.
Reflecting on his decision to join TMC, Semmalai admitted that he had contemplated this move for some time. He was particularly struck by Vijay’s acknowledgment of former chief ministers C.N. Annadurai and M.G. Ramachandran (MGR) as his political mentors.
Semmalai criticized the AIADMK for failing to provide effective leadership and claimed that party workers are not receiving the respect they deserve, leading to a string of departures. He warned that the number of people remaining in the AIADMK will continue to dwindle if these issues persist.
He highlighted that supporters of MGR’s legacy are increasingly drawn to Vijay’s political vision and governance style. Semmalai commended Vijay for challenging the influence of money, caste, and religion in politics, as well as for his commitment to eradicating corruption.
Having previously served as the Health and Education Minister and as a spokesperson for the AIADMK, Semmalai has a long history in Tamil Nadu politics. He represented the Tharamangalam constituency in the 1980 and 1984 assembly elections and won a Lok Sabha seat in 2009. His recent shift to TMC comes as campaigning intensifies for the upcoming by-elections in Dharapuram and Maduranthakam on October 6.
Leave a Comment