CHENNAI : The restoration of the Two Leaves symbol to the ruling AIADMK had its impact within a few days. In a big setback to V K Sasikala and T T V Dhinakaran, who have been kept away from the AIADMK by the latest order of the Election Commission, three Rajya Sabha members of the party - A Navaneethakrishnan, N Gokulakrishnan and Vijila Sathyanand - perceived as staunch supporters of Dhinakaran so far, called on Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami at his residence and reportedly conveyed their support.
Speaking to mediapersons, they said, “We will be there wherever the Two Leaves are.”
A fortnight ago, V Maitreyan and two other party functionaries met Rajya Sabha secretary-general Desh Deepak Verma at Delhi and held discussions about the procedure for disqualifying these three MPs. Later, Maitreyan and other functionaries also called on Vice-President and Chairman of Rajya Sabha and reportedly discussed the issue.
Thamizhmagan Hussain and former minister Vaigai Selvan expressed confidence that more MPs and MLAs supporting Dhinakaran would return to the ruling AIADMK. E Rathinasabapathy, Arantangi MLA, denied reports doing the rounds in media that he was planning to meet the chief minister for a patch-up between the Dhinakaran faction and the ruling party.
Talking to Express, he clarified, “Of course, a few days ago, I said merger of all factions alone would strengthen the party and if such efforts are made, I will play a role in it. I am still confident that Dhinakaran alone has support of cadre and public.”
Patch-up rumours
E Rathina-sabapathy, Arantangi MLA, denied reports doing the rounds in media that he was planning to meet the chief minister for a patch-up between the Dhinakaran faction and the ruling party.