CHENNAI: Even as the efforts to merge the two factions of AIADMK are going on, the smaller feud within the ruling AIADMK (Amma) went on unabated on Wednesday, while TTV Dhinakaran, still holding the post of deputy general secretary of the ruling faction, continued to flex muscles after meeting his aunt VK Sasikala at Parappana Agrahara prison.
“I will perform the necessary operation at the right time and on the right person. I have been with the late CM Jayalalithaa for about 30 years. With Sasikala’s advice, I will perform necessary surgery in the party and politics when and where it is necessary,” Dhinakaran told mediapersons at Bengaluru. “I will engage myself in activities to strengthen the party and to steer it to a big victory in the 2019 elections, which will include merging the factions of AIADMK,” Dhinakaran said.
Responding to a query about the functioning of the government headed by Chief Minister ‘Edappadi’ K Palaniswami, he said, “I will be addressing public meetings in all district headquarters where I will tell the people in detail how this government functions. Will also meet district level functionaries.” Dhinakaran said none could stop him from entering party headquarters as deputy general secretary, but evaded the question when he would do it. He claimed support of 122 MLAs.
As per Sasikala’s advice, the MPs of the AIADMK (Amma) would vote for NDA candidate for vice- presidential poll, Venkaiah Naidu, he added. Meanwhile, Dhinakaran loyalist and district secretary P Vetrivel and finance minister Jayakumar locked horns in Chennai.
When asked about Vetrivel’s warning that he would be stripped of party and government posts if he continued to launch barbs against Dhinakaran, Jayakumar retaliated, pointing out that Vetrivel was a late joinee of AIADMK from Congress. “He should not try to infuse Congress culture in the AIADMK,” said Jayakumar.
‘Will file case against DIG Roopa’
Emerging from the meeting with Sasikala in Bengaluru, Dhinakaran denied that any special concessions were given to his aunt. The matter had become a controversy after, DIG D Roopa, alleged Sasikala was extended comforts in return for a hefty bribe. Dhinakaran said he would file a defamation case against Roopa for maligning Sasikala by spreading rumours.