Former AIADMK Leader Explores Political Realignment
In a significant political development that could reshape Tamil Nadu's opposition landscape, former AIADMK coordinator O Panneerselvam is actively considering alignment with the ruling DMK for the crucial 2026 assembly elections. This potential shift comes as unification efforts with his former party, AIADMK, appear to be failing ahead of the December 15 deadline he had set for reconciliation.
Growing Support for DMK Alliance Among OPS Camp
Several functionaries from OPS's 'AIADMK Cadres Rights Retrieval Committee' have expressed strong preference for joining the DMK-led alliance, with some even submitting written opinions during a meeting held in Chennai last week. The associates argue that OPS, given his extensive experience as a three-time chief minister, should not consider joining relatively untested political entities like Vijay's TVK, which they describe as 'politically and electorally unproven'.
A Subburathinam, a former MLA and close associate of OPS, articulated the ideological justification for this potential move: "There is nothing wrong in joining DMK, as it follows the principles and ideology of Periyar and Anna, our political ideologues. We are not averse to having an alliance with them if such a situation arises. OPS will not indulge in activity that will harm the Dravidian ideology."
Historical Context and Current Political Calculus
This potential alignment marks a dramatic shift from the historical position of AIADMK founders. While party founder M G Ramachandran and his successor J Jayalalithaa had previously described DMK as an "evil force," OPS's supporters believe this characterization doesn't apply to the current M K Stalin-led DMK.
Key political advisors including Panruti S Ramachandran are reportedly encouraging OPS to join the "winning combine led by DMK" as a strategic move to counter AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami, who has remained firm about not re-admitting expelled members. Supporters point to historical precedents of AIADMK leaders joining DMK alliance, including R M Veerappan and S Thirunavukkarasar.
The significance of OPS's July visit to Stalin's residence, which occurred on the same day the chief minister was hospitalized and when OPS severed ties with BJP, is now being viewed as a crucial political signal by his supporters.
DMK's Open Door Policy and Potential Impact
DMK sources indicate that the party maintains an open-door policy for those aligning with Dravidian ideology principles. A senior DMK leader stated: "We don't reject anyone, especially when they are ideologically strong and add value to the alliance." The leader added that OPS joining the DMK-led front could potentially split opposition votes, providing an additional advantage.
Currently, seven former AIADMK leaders hold significant portfolios in the Stalin cabinet, including prominent names like E V Velu, K K S S R Ramachandran, S Regupathy, and S Muthusamy, demonstrating the DMK's willingness to accommodate experienced politicians from rival camps.
OPS himself recently commented on the DMK front's bright poll prospects, citing the split in AIADMK and PMK as contributing factors. As the December 15 deadline for AIADMK unification approaches, all political eyes remain focused on what could become one of the most significant political realignments in recent Tamil Nadu history.
