AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami on Tuesday stated that there were no discussions with Union Home Minister Amit Shah regarding the possible inclusion of V. K. Sasikala in the National Democratic Alliance for the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly election. Addressing reporters in Chennai, Palaniswami clarified that the issue of Sasikala joining the alliance did not figure in his recent interaction with the senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader.
The statement comes amid political speculation surrounding potential realignments ahead of the state polls. Reports had suggested that discussions may have taken place regarding Sasikala’s political future and her possible role within the alliance led by the National Democratic Alliance. However, Palaniswami categorically denied such claims and asserted that no such topic was raised during his meeting with Amit Shah.
Palaniswami emphasized that the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam would independently decide on matters concerning party structure and alliances. He maintained that the AIADMK remains focused on strengthening its organisation and preparing for the forthcoming electoral contest. According to him, alliance related decisions would be announced at the appropriate time through official channels.
VK Sasikala, who previously served as interim general secretary of the AIADMK, has remained a subject of discussion in Tamil Nadu politics following internal party developments in recent years. Political observers have frequently speculated about her potential re entry into mainstream political activity. Palaniswami’s clarification seeks to dispel recent rumours and reaffirm the party’s current leadership position.
The meeting between Palaniswami and Amit Shah was part of broader political consultations taking place ahead of the Assembly elections. While details of their discussion were not fully disclosed, Palaniswami stated that general political matters and election preparedness were reviewed. He reiterated that speculation about Sasikala’s entry into the NDA was unfounded.
Analysts note that alliance arithmetic is likely to play a crucial role in the upcoming Tamil Nadu elections. The AIADMK has historically been a key player in the state’s political landscape and has aligned with national parties at different points in time. However, Palaniswami’s remarks underline that no decision regarding Sasikala’s position within the NDA framework has been discussed or finalized.
Party sources indicated that AIADMK’s focus remains on consolidating grassroots support and strengthening district level coordination. Leaders have been holding internal meetings to streamline campaign strategies and outreach initiatives.
Palaniswami concluded by urging party members and the public not to rely on speculative reports. He stressed that official statements from the AIADMK leadership should be considered the authoritative source regarding alliance matters.
