OPS Labels 2017 Support for EPS as His Biggest Political Mistake
In a fiery campaign speech across southern Tamil Nadu constituencies, former Chief Minister O Panneerselvam launched a severe critique against AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami, openly expressing profound regret for his pivotal decision to back Palaniswami during a critical no-confidence motion in 2017. Panneerselvam, who recently joined the DMK, described this move as the single largest blunder of his extensive political career, marking a significant moment in the ongoing realignment of Tamil Nadu's political landscape.
"EPS Fell at My Feet": Panneerselvam Recalls 2017 No-Confidence Motion
"EPS was in power for 4.5 years as chief minister. It was me who saved his government," declared Panneerselvam during his campaign stops in Vasudevanallur, Mudukulathur, Paramakudi, and Thiruvadanai. "If not for my support and the votes of my loyal supporters, EPS could not have survived as chief minister during that no-confidence motion moved in the assembly." He vividly recounted how Palaniswami personally appealed to him, stating, "Since he fell at my feet and begged for my support, I supported him." This dramatic revelation underscores the deep personal and political betrayal Panneerselvam now feels, framing his past alliance as a grave error in judgment.
Contrasting Loyalty: Jayalalithaa vs. Palaniswami
Panneerselvam drew a sharp contrast between his own political conduct and that of Palaniswami. He reminded audiences that the late AIADMK supremo J Jayalalithaa entrusted him with the chief minister's post on three separate occasions, and he always returned the position to her "on a golden platter" as a true loyalist when the situation permitted. In stark opposition, he labeled Palaniswami as "the ultimate example of betrayal of trust," accusing him of systematically removing dedicated party loyalists who had sacrificed for the AIADMK. Panneerselvam emphatically stated that the people rightly ended Palaniswami's "four-year dark rule" in the 2021 elections and should now drive him out of politics entirely.
Praising DMK's Dravidian Model and Industrial Outreach
Shifting his focus to the current administration, Panneerselvam lavished praise on the DMK government led by Chief Minister M K Stalin. He asserted that over the past five years, the government has functioned effectively as a genuine "Dravidian Model" administration. Criticizing previous industrial policies that concentrated development solely around Chennai, he highlighted Stalin's successful efforts to decentralize growth. "Stalin has proactively brought new industries to southern districts such as Madurai, Tuticorin, and Tirunelveli, creating substantial employment opportunities for the youth," Panneerselvam explained. This strategic shift, he argued, has led to a marked improvement in both rural economies and individual financial stability across the region.
Confidence in DMK's Future and 2026 Election Prospects
Expressing strong optimism for his new political home, Panneerselvam pointed to the recent DMK conference in Trichy as clear evidence of the massive popular support for Stalin's leadership. "The entire state of Tamil Nadu is poised to deliver a resounding victory for the DMK in the 2026 assembly elections," he predicted confidently. He believes the people's verdict will powerfully resonate in favor of Stalin, solidifying the DMK's position and continuing the progressive policies he now openly champions. This statement not only reinforces his commitment to the DMK but also signals a concerted effort to consolidate anti-AIADMK votes ahead of the crucial state polls.
