AIADMK crisis LIVE: Senior leader TTV Dinakaran arrives at Bengaluru jail to meet VK Sasikala
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami is all set to seek a vote of confidence on Saturday in the state assembly — that is likely to see some tight-rope walk, with the rival AIADMK faction led by O. Panneerselvam joined by opposition parties to vote against the government.
 "AIADMK crisis LIVE: Senior leader TTV Dinakaran arrives at Bengaluru jail to meet VK Sasikala")
‘MLAs complained about being caged’
Advocate K Balu said that AIADMK MLAs were kept at Golden Bay resort for 11 days and that many had filed a complaint about being caged.
Have proof that AIADMK MLAs were kept at Golden Bay resort for 11 days& also that many filed complaint about being caged: Advocate K. Balu pic.twitter.com/auese3hvGi
— ANI (@ANI) February 22, 2017
MK Stalin-led DMK’s hunger strike protest over ruckus that took place in Tamil Nadu Assembly underway
Trichy (Tamil Nadu): MK Stalin led DMK's hunger strike protest over ruckus that took place in Tamil Nadu Assembly underway. pic.twitter.com/ZmadjO07Vb
— ANI (@ANI) February 22, 2017
No Confidence Motion against P Dhanapal
On Tuesday, MK Stalin had said that the DMK would move a no confidence motion against P Dhanapal. This response came after P Dhanapal claimed that he was specifically targetted by the DMK for hailing for a particular community.
“When we see that the Speaker is deliberately harping on his community to maligns us, it is very regrettable. It is a matter of shame, according to us, for Tamil Nadu,” Stalin had said.
with inputs from PTI
Massive security arrangements
Massive security arrangements have been put in place across Tamil Nadu to prevent untoward incidents during the protests.
Trichy (Tamil Nadu): DMK begins its hunger strike protest over ruckus that took place in Tamil Nadu Assembly. MK Stalin also present pic.twitter.com/PKseoSNmJ5
— ANI (@ANI) February 22, 2017
DMK cadre protests
The DMK cadre observed hunger strike in all district offices across Tamil Nadu protesting eviction of DMK MLAs from the state Assembly on Saturday, 18 February.
Working president of the party, MK Stalin, is participating in the strike from Trichy.
Panrutti Ramachandran reacts
Panrutti Ramachandran said that there is no secret ballot in the Parliament or Assembly, it is used only during elections. The reason it is not used in the Parliament and Assembly is to prevent defection.
There is no secret ballot in parliament and assembly, only during elections it is followed: Panrutti Ramachandran, Senior AIADMK leader pic.twitter.com/4xUQfZYXVR
— ANI (@ANI) February 22, 2017
Madras High Court adjourns case
The DMK petition challenging Tamil Nadu chief minister’s trust vote win, Madras High Court adjourns case till Monday asking petitioners to submit video of ruckus in Tamil Nadu Assembly.
Updates from 22 February, 2017 begin here
Palaniswami’s bid to woo the public?
Earlier in the day, Palaniswami ‘did a J Jayalalithaa’ by deciding to close down 500 more Tasmac liquor shops just like his leader had done when she returned to power in May 2016.Among his other decisions was to announce a housing scheme to build 5,000 independent homes for fisherfolk, implementation of an election promise to give working women a 50 percent subsidy to buy a vehicle and an in emolument for pregnant women from Rs 12,000 to Rs 18,000, which will benefit six lakh women.
Read the full analysis here .
AIADMK leader TTV Dinakaran reaches Bengaluru Jail
AIADMK Deputy General Secretary TTV Dinakaran has reached the Bengaluru Central Jail and will be meeting VK Sasikala, who has been jailed in the disproportionate assets case for four years, reports NDTV.
Actress-turned politician Vijayashanthi comes in support of E Palaniswami
Actress-turned politician Vijayshanti comes out in support of E Palaniswami
Venkaiah Naidu reacts to developments in Tamil Nadu
What happened in Tamil Nadu assembly yesterday was disgrace to democracy: Union Minister Venkaiah Naidu (file pic) pic.twitter.com/lHBH7Cz91B
— ANI (@ANI) February 19, 2017
All concerned should really introspect and see that such things are not allowed to happen in future:Union Min Venkaiah Naidu #TamilNadu
— ANI (@ANI) February 19, 2017
Stalin says he will meet President Pranab Mukherjee to highlight the ongoing crisis
I will participate in Tiruchi for the hunger strike on Feb 22: MK Stalin, DMK pic.twitter.com/FYjRw5xIus
— ANI (@ANI) February 19, 2017
We're trying to meet President Pranab Mukherjee in Delhi on this regard; Have sought time to highlight the Assembly situation: MK Stalin,DMK pic.twitter.com/734eybwnwi
— ANI (@ANI) February 19, 2017
DMK submits memorandum to governor
DMK leaders met with the governor on Sunday and submitted a memorandum on Saturday’s floor test. Speaking to media, DMK Rajya Sabha MP T Siva said, “We’ve submitted a memorandum on the issue to TN Governor; He has promised to look into the matter. Sans participation of Opposition in Assembly, the trust vote moved by CM was passed; It’s illegal.”
O Panneerselvam reaches Raj Bhavan
Chennai: #OPanneerselvam reached Raj Bhavan to meet TN Governor Ch. Vidyasagar Rao. pic.twitter.com/jyjNjs8M35
— ANI (@ANI) February 19, 2017
Edappadi Palaniswami meets Governor Rao
Earlier in the day, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi Palaniswami met Governor Vidyasagar Rao. According to media reports, AIADMK Deputy General Secreatry TTV Dinakaran too accompanied Palaniswami.
Chennai: TN Chief Minister Edappadi Palanisami reaches Raj Bhavan to meet Governor Ch. Vidyasagar Rao. pic.twitter.com/AL3q4cHW3j
— ANI (@ANI) February 19, 2017
DMK to hold state-wide protests on 22 February
DMK announces hunger strike on Feb 22 in all district offices of the party in Tamil Nadu pic.twitter.com/VifHbSc4YJ
— IndiaToday (@IndiaToday) February 19, 2017
FIR filed against MK Stalin, other DMK leaders following Tamil Nadu Assembly ruckus
An FIR has been filed against DMK working president MK Stalin, 63 party MLAs, 3 MPs and cadres for holding a protest at Marina beach against the alleged attack on him and his MLAs during the trust vote in the Assembly.
With inputs from PTI
Tamil Nadu: DMK workers protest in Coimbatore over alleged mistreatment meted out to #MKStalin in Assembly; later detained by Police pic.twitter.com/E1RKmzFqUt
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
Stalin, other DMK MLAs released from Mylapore Police Station
DMK legislators, including its leader MK Stalin have been released after a brief detention, according to India Today TV. He has written to the governor urging his intervention after E Palaniswami won, what he called an ‘undemocratically executed’ trust vote.
Request TN Guv to restore democratic values&order Assembly postponement fr conducting secret voting on Confidence Motion-MK Stalin in letter pic.twitter.com/rCUyKapQmN
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
In the Sasikala vs OPS battle, Stalin could be the clear winner
“Then there was the sight of Stalin, the leader of the Opposition, walking out of the Assembly with his shirt buttons open, claiming it was torn by political rivals. It was the DMK leader’s political 56-inch chest moment, signifying his party was ready for the political battle… The DMK calculated that even if it indulged in what would be deemed to be unparliamentary behaviour, the public mood is so anti-Sasikala that it would forgive Saturday’s misdemeanour. Stalin would hope to build on this to start a public movement against the Palaniswami’s freshly minted government.”
Read full analysis hereMK Stalin released after brief detention, says action against DMK MLAs unlawful
E Palaniswami wins trust vote in Tamil Nadu Assembly, but democracy takes a beating
“Democracy formally retired hurt in the land of Kolaveri on Saturday. The entire Opposition of the DMK, Congress and the IUML was evicted to allow Edappadi K Palaniswami to seek a trust vote, which he won 122-11. In the process, farce earned a synonym.”
Read full analysis hereEdappadi Palaniswami’s in-laws linked with infamous Jayachandra money laundering case?
The newly appointed Tamil Nadu CM may be basking in the glory of his recent victory in the trust vote. But E Palaniswami will have to face some tough questions over not just his links with river sand mining baron Shekhar Reddy but also those of his in-laws with another Bengaluru-based racketeer
Read the full analysis hereImages of MK Stalin, DMK legislators getting arrested
@arivalayam leader @mkstalin being arrested in #marinabeach for protest against today's floor test by #edapaddipalaniswami in #TNAssembly pic.twitter.com/h5LVoZrSml
— TE Raja Simhan (@terajasimhan) February 18, 2017
Earlier visuals of DMK legislators protesting at Marina beach
Earlier visuals of DMK's protest at Chennai's Marina Beach. DMK Working President MK Stalin & other party leaders still in Police detention. pic.twitter.com/5ZALGvo3vk
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
Actor Gautami rallies behind Panneerselvam
Popular Tamil actress Gautami threw weight behind O Panneerselvam as she condemned the E Palaniswami camp. The actor said that the people’s will and democracy cannot be manipulated with a number game and tweeted her stand with the #OPSforCM.
Democracy can't be manipulated by "Number Games" It's the VOICE OF the PEOPLE. BY the PEOPLE. FOR the PEOPLE #SaveDemocracy #OPSForCM
— Gautami Tadimalla (@gautamitads) February 16, 2017
Protesters burn Sasikala effigy at Marina Beach
After DMK MLAs and its leader MK Stalin were detained, the party’s supporters continued their protest at the Marina beach amid heavy police deployment. According to CNN-News 18, the protesters are raising anti-AIADMK slogans and burnt Sasikala’s effigy.
Our war will continue: O Panneerselvam
O Panneerselvam refuses to get bogged down by the rival camp’s victory in the trust vote. According to India Today TV, OPS termed the way the Vote of Confidence was conducted as “undemocratic”. He said he will not rest until he reinstates a government that will follow the footsteps of Jayalalithaa.
This is not what people voted for: Actor Arvind Swami
Actor Arvind Swami took to twitter to react to the outcome of the trust vote that reinstated E Palaniswami’s claim to the Tamil Nadu throne. The actor said that this is not the people’s mandate and reelection is the only solution left.
In my opinion, The only solution that is acceptable under the circumstances is a re- election. This is not the people's mandate.
— arvind swami (@thearvindswami) February 18, 2017
Kamal Haasan urges people to not stay silent
The veteran actor took to twitter after Sasikala camp won the trust vote and urged the people of Tamil Nadu to make their voices heard. He asked the people to “welcome their MLAs with the respect they deserve.” But beyond the sarcastic quip, he asked the people to write to the governor and not be afraid on voicing out their opinion on the trust vote. He also advised people to keep the language of their e-mails clean and decent.
Rajbhavantamilnadu@gmail.com
— Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) February 18, 2017
ங்கற விலாசத்துக்கு நம் மன உளைச்சலை மின் அஞ்சலா
அனுப்புங்க. மரியாதையா பேசணும் அது அசம்பளியில்ல Governor வீடு
With the Opposition thrown out, only 11 nay sayers in Tamil Nadu trust vote
All the 122 AIADMK MLAs who participated in the voting sided with Palaniswami. And with the DMK MLA’s marshalled out of the Assembly ahead of the vote, a meager 11 supporters of O Panneerselvam were the only nay sayers as EPS sailed through the trust vote.
EPS hits out at OPS, says rival faction worked against Amma
A booming E Palaniswami after securing a win in the trust vote, hit out at the Panneerselvam camp. He said that the rival camp was working against Amma’s wishes, while terming his victory a win for “real Amma backers”
MK Stalin and DMK MLAs detained at Marina beach during protests
Chennai Police detained MK Stalin and several other DMK MLAs for carrying out a protest at the Marina beach against the speaker’s decision to evict the party’s MLA ahead of the trust vote.
Stalin was sitting on a hunger strike at the Marina beach, alleging that they were forcefully evicted from the Assembly.
After winning trust vote, EPS breaks down at Jaya memorial
In the chaos enfolding the Tamil Nadu politics, Jayalalithaa’s memorial has emerged as the nerve centre of the state’s realpolitik. It seems to have become the go-to spot for all the AIADMK politicians claiming to be the ’true’ Amma loyalist.
The newly sworn-in Chief Minister E Palaniswami kept up the tradition adopted of late, and visited the Jaya memorial, where he reportedly broke down after finally securing a win.
Meanwhile… Kamal Haasan reacts to the trust vote drama with a quip
There you go. Seems like we have another CM. Jai de-mockcrazy
— Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) February 18, 2017
CM E Palaniswamy, AIADMK Ministers and MLAs pay tribute at Jayalalithaa Memorial at Marina Beach
Chennai: TN CM E Palaniswamy, AIADMK Ministers and MLAs pay tribute at #Jayalalithaa memorial at Marina Beach pic.twitter.com/OHXsWJgtx1
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
MK Stalin will hold a protest at Chennai’s Marina Beach
DMK working president MK Stalin will hold a protest at Chennai’s Marina Beach.
Stalin meets Governor of Tamil Nadu
DMK working president MK Stalin met Governor C Vidyasagar Rao after the floor test in Tamil Nadu Assembly, which led to E Palaniswami’s win.
Chennai: DMK Working President MK Stalin met Governor C.Vidyasagar Rao after #floortest in Tamil Nadu Assembly pic.twitter.com/XH00xT6FOv
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
DMK MP Tiruchi Siva reacts
We condemn the thrashing of MLAs; This is murder of democracy and can't be accepted in any form: DMK MP Tiruchi Siva pic.twitter.com/LDUzwccR5H
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
Chaos in Tamil Nadu Assembly touches new low but that fails to surprise us
The bitterness and the animosity amid legislators have so often set new benchmarks of absurdity that they no longer stir the same outrage in amid the people.
From shoe hurling, to verbal abuse, to even attacking the modesty of a woman parliamentarian, we have seen it all, in the world’s largest democracy that takes pride in following a federal structure.
TKS Elangovan questions the vote
After the Speaker announced an adjournment, how did a vote take place? “All MLAs were scared to cast votes in favour of trust vote,” he said.
After adjournment made by Speaker, how did vote take place? All MLAs were scared to cast votes in favour of trust vote: TKS Elangovan, DMK pic.twitter.com/QRscMcBOCy
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
E Palaniswami at Jaya Memorial
E Palaniswami who just won the floor test in the Tamil Nadu Assembly broke down at Jaya memorial. With 122 ayes and 11 nos, Palaniswami won.
So much fuss for 122 votes less than 1 year after Jaya’s stunning Assembly election win
So, it turns out Sasikala’s team booked her MLAs into Golden Bay Resorts, kept bouncers outside and got them to vote for Palaniswami at the trust vote today — all this less than a year from the time Jayalalithaa led this same party to a stunning win in the Assembly elections after unprecedented floods, battling personal ill health and multiple medical complications.
That stark difference rankles, it will continue to dog the Palaniswami government for whatever time it manages to hold on. The power brokers who ruled from behind the scenes are now official, TTV Dinakaran’s sphere of influence will spread and all clamour for a probe into Jayalalithaa’s death will be snuffed out immediately.
Upside is that the OPS faction will go back to the people which is where any political party derives legitimate power from. Tamil Nadu’s voters can’t wait for the next election.
O Panneerselvam reacts
“Once we go back to our constituencies will get to know the truth, the voters have been betrayed by MLAs.”
“We have time to prove this, at the end only dharma will win. If need be will meet the Governor”
“We’ve time to prove this but at the last ‘dharma’ only will win.”
“We had kept two demands before speaker, one was to send MLAs to their constituencies, but Speaker didn’t agree to them”
“DMK MLAs for 3 hours kept on repeating their request to save democracy, now in absence of all of us, vote was passed; we doubt validity.”
“Family thrown out from party by Amma again comes into picture wth VKSasikala’s intervention; it won’t last, Amma’s rule will b established.”
We have time to prove this, at the end only dharma will win. If need be will meet the Governor: #OPanneerselvam on #floortest pic.twitter.com/1XECTbX9i4
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
We had kept 2 demands before speaker, one was to send MLAs to their constituencies, but Speaker didn't agree to them: #OPanneerselvam pic.twitter.com/zYA2xDR9Zb
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
It was over right from the time the Speaker ruled on the secret ballot
It was all over the minute the speaker ruled on the secret ballot. No AIADMK MLA could vote for OPS without risking disqualification under the anti-defection law.
Today’s actions by the DMK were more about making an electoral pitch than anything else. Stable government for Tamil Nadu till the elections at least.
Stalin’s torn shirt: Visual of the day for the Opposition
From what we’ve seen from 11 am to 3 pm today, at Koovathur for the last 12 days, at Raj Bhavan since last Thursday, what (all) can we infer, since we are unlikely to get official word on intentions behind outcomes? After the DA court case verdict against Sasikala, we figured where OPS’ new found confidence may have come from for his rebellion at Jayalalithaa’s memorial.
The same way, although the Governor lost no time in inviting Palanisamy to prove his majority, did he do that knowing that these chaotic scenes playing out in the Assembly are better ingredients for any further decisions that need to come from Raj Bhavan rather than either waiting it out or imposing President’s rule without letting the instability become obvious?
For the DMK, the anger is on several fronts. Sasikala has targeted them for the split within the AIADMK, accused Stalin of colluding with OPS, vowed to hurt the DMK even more, and finally the Speaker who is a Sasikala loyalist neither allowing live telecast of the proceedings not allowing a secret ballot.
Among the most played images of today will surely be Stalin showing his torn shirt, symptomatic of what the AIADMK stands for under Sasikala’s remote control. With chief secretary Girija Vaidyanathan meeting the Governor and updating him on all that happened ( she was inside the Assembly), DMK and OPS have both gotten more out of the trust vote than most expected.
They’ve shown what Tamil Nadu will be like until new elections are announced — and to that extent their ends justify the means.
122 MLAs vote for E Palaniswami winning no confidence motion
The chief minister won the motion, but the voting was conducted without the DMK which was seeking secret ballot in the first place.
Trust vote on without the Opposition present
The Tamil Nadu Assembly session is on with the trust vote.
P Dhanapal strict on house rules
“Even though I was manhandled and shirt was torn, I reconvened house. The house will function only according to rules,” he said.
Even though I was manhandled and shirt was torn, I reconvened house. The house will function only acc to rules: P Dhanapal,TN Speaker pic.twitter.com/R3zabCJDAx
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
Speaker tore of his shirt himself and blamed MLAs of DMK. We reiterate our demand for a secret ballot: MK Stalin #floortest
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
MK Stalin reacts
Stalin said that the request for convening a secret ballot, “repeated appeals” were denied. We refused to accept the Speaker’s decision and sat on the Assembly floor.
“Suddenly around 1.30pm-2 pm, 500 Marshals came in, they hit us. We were all picked up beaten and thrown out of the Assembly Hall. Some of us have internal injuries and bleeding. We have written to the speaker to delay this further. We will now meet the governor to tell him what exactly happened.”
Panneeselvam is banking on secret ballot
Panneerselvam’s camp will be banking on a secret ballot. Without it members who vote against Palaniswami today could risk incurring the wrath of the Anti-Defection Law and consequently be disqualified.
But the Speaker’s decision on the secret ballot is beyond review. DMK’s disposal will be to walk out of the house dropping the quorum and that would be an own goal. In terms of numbers without a secret ballot, the motion to support the government should carry in the afternoon.
DMK MLAs being forcibly removed
DMK MLAs are forcibly being removed from TN Assembly, they are adamant about not leaving the House.
#UPDATE - DMK MLAs adamant not to leave the house. More commotion inside the house
— News18 (@CNNnews18) February 18, 2017
Subramanian Swamy hits out at DMK
“This is a low; DMK did the same thing. Violence is the creed of DMK.”
“Secret ballot is out of the question. It’s unconstitutional. Secret ballot is never held in assembly”
“President Rule cant come. There is a ruling party which has a majority as governor is satisfied”
Keeping the press out is an old trick
It’s no surprise that Speaker Dhanapal decided not to allow live coverage of the trust vote proceedings – it’s playing to script so far. It’s what you would expect from a Jaya-Sasikala devotee.
But muting the mics and not allowing press photographers inside got the media really angry. It helps that both the main Dravidian parties in Tamil Nadu have full fledged 24-hour news channels – the visuals get out somehow.
There’s a thin line between partisanship and fairness here. Clearly, in the absence of popular mandate, Sasikala’s faction is trying every trick to retain its tenuous hold on power.
Meanwhile, Golden Bay Resorts is “shut for maintenance” because some of Sasikala’s MLAs will likely head back there and the resort is under instructions to keep rooms on the ready, just in case the trust vote does not end today.
Assembly adjourned till 3 pm
This is the second time the Assembly has been adjourned during the special session that was called to conduct a floor test. Earlier, the House was adjourned till 1 pm after a violent outburst by the DMK MLAs who demanded a secret ballot and deferment of the floor-test. However, these requests were denied.
After the House was reconvened at 1 pm, the DMK MLAs were expelled by the Speaker for their earlier unruly and violent behaviour. The DMK MLAs protesting this expulsion and are refusing to leave.
#floortest: DMK MLAs to sit on dharna inside Tamil Nadu assembly premises.
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
Broken tables and chairs
Earlier visuals of broken tables and torn pieces of paper near Speaker's chair #floortest pic.twitter.com/dGcF0HMRok
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
Holier than thou
A big problem with the DMK ruckus is that it allows the AIADMK to play holier than thou, with their herding of the MLAs at resort forgotten.
Visuals of the violent outburst in the Assembly earlier today
#WATCH DMK MLAs scuffle with TN Assembly speaker, protesting DMK MLA Ku Ka Selvam sat on speaker chair #floortest (Jaya TV) pic.twitter.com/CkMQY9FfQx
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
DMK protest in TN assembly earlier today, MLAs snatch Speaker's mic and throw paper #floortest (Jaya TV) pic.twitter.com/3pGfUpAF3G
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
DMK MLAs thrown out ahead of vote
DMK MLAs were expelled from the Assembly ahead of the trust vote. A point to be noted is that DMK MLAs were batting for O Panneerselvam before the House broke into chaos. DMK MLAs in fact asked for the secret ballot along with Panneerselvam.
The Speaker P Dhanapal ordered the Assembly police to evict DMK MLAs. He also said: “You (DMK MLAs) tore my shirt and insulted me, I am doing my work abiding law”
Marshals surrounded Speaker Dhanapal to ensure he is not attacked. The Marshals have been unable to evict all DMK MLAs from House.
What about MLAs in captivity?
DMK legislators readying for the next round on trust vote day are questioning on what grounds their behaviour is being called “undemocratic” while AIADMK legislators being locked up in Koovathur and being paraded like prisoners is okay.
Reacting to media reports and political commentators saying DMKs getting on top of chairs in the Assembly is unbecoming of elected representatives of the people, locals are saying they too would prefer a secret ballot.
That the Speaker is within his rights to choose how the trust vote must proceed is one thing, what we all know about the fear factor within the Sasikala camp is quite another. The general view in Chennai is that DMK flexing muscle at a time like this must not be seen in isolation but read in context with the essential nature of Sasikala’s band of loyalists – a garden variety of strongmen.
Yes, the Constitution allows for peaceful assembly but ask anyone in Tamil Nadu whether they believe AIADMK MLAs in Golden Bay Resorts were there of their free will and the answer is a loud “No.”
Tamil Nadu Assembly session begins again
Tamil Nadu Assembly proceedings begin again #floortest
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
Details of pandemonium that occurred in the Assembly
The Tamil Nadu State Assembly Speaker was heckled by the MLAs. A security personnel in the Assembly was injured. According to CNN News18, Marshalls had to escort the Speaker out of the Assembly.
#UPDATE -- Tamil Nadu speaker heckled by DMK MLAs inside the assembly
— News18 (@CNNnews18) February 18, 2017
#UPDATE - An injured assembly official being taken to hospital following massive ruckus in the assembly
— News18 (@CNNnews18) February 18, 2017
Secratariat employee injured
An Assembly secretariat employee has been injured. He has been taken away in an ambulance.
An Assembly secretariat employee is the one who is injured. Taken away in an ambulance.
— T S Sudhir (@Iamtssudhir) February 18, 2017
Tamil Nadu politics under Sasikala regime
We just got a sample of how Tamil Nadu politics will be under Sasikala’s proxy called Edappadi Palanisamy. Chairs flying, books and paper being torn, every move questioned – welcome to the new normal in Tamil Nadu unless there’s an election. This is precisely why the Governor’s decision to hurry up with the swearing in of Palanisamy is being questioned by Tamil Nadu’s people.
Upside is that DMK won’t allow Sasikala’s stooges to rest in peace. This is the party’s best chance in a post-Jayalalithaa Tamil Nadu to assert and lay the groundwork for the next election, whenever that is.
M Karunanidhi is in bad health and he’s 94, Stalin is not keeping too well so patience is in short supply all around. Although OPS is struggling to get the numbers to his side, he is a far less divisive force and that works well for him on a day like this when DMK is clearly in control inside the Assembly. They’ve been out of power for many years but they know what power feels like.
Not by proxy is their message — loud and clear, from atop chairs in the Assembly. Your goondas versus our goondas.
DMK is a violent and anti-national party: Subramanian Swamy
DMK is a violent and anti-national party. Whatever she is, #VKSasikala is much better than DMK: Subramanian Swamy,BJP pic.twitter.com/yDXvTAqWPT
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
DMK protest in assembly
Police move towards Assembly premises after huge uproar inside by DMK and other parties demanding secret ballot #floortest pic.twitter.com/l1l1VCpzBn
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
DMK protest in assembly: Table in front of Speaker's chair has been broken, . Microphones being thrown #floortest
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
Unruly, violent behaviour
DMK MLA Selvam sat on the Speaker’s chair. Chairs were broken and the situation has gotten out of control. The table in front of the Speaker broken. The House has been adjourned till 1 pm and the Speaker has left the Assembly.
Now the E Palaniswami camp has to safeguard its MLAs.
Even if Palaniswami wins, Sasikala’s camp will get more divided
Even if Palaniswami pulls off a win today, expect jealousy against Palaniswami’s ascent to divide the Sasikala faction further. As Tamil Nadu heads for a hotter summer this year and farmers from rice and corn growing rural belts already reeling under drought conditions, the new government will swiftly have to pivot from politics towards governance and welfare.
That means a trip into the boondocks is inevitable for MLAs who will now be branded as Sasikala’s stooges. “Serippa kazhati addikannum (they must be beaten with chappals),” is the most common reaction to Sasikala’s brood at street side tea stalls and that’s the reaction Sasikala’s MLAs will see in their constituencies where they must return more quickly than they would want to.
Chennai’s water crisis has already begun and it’s not even March yet. The business of running a megapolis like Chennai and a state that has excellent social indicators under Jayalalithaa won’t be easy for Sasikala’s camp. That’s where Stalin’s confidence comes from when he says we can expect elections in 6 months.
Confidence motion put on hold; House adjourned till 1 pm
The Tamil Nadu Assembly has been adjourned till 1 pm. According to CNN News18, chairs were thrown at Speakers podium and complete pandemonium persisted in the Assembly. The voting has been postponed in this light.
Utter chaos in the Tamil Nadu Assembly
DMK MLA Poongothai Aladi Aruna climbed on a bench and raised slogans demanding for a secret ballot. And other DMK MLAs surround Speaker Dhanapal. AIADMK member R Natarajan said that MLAs should be given time to meet people and know their views. According to News18, the Assembly session has been adjourned till 1 pm.
DMK MLA Poongothai Aladi Aruna climbs on bench and raises slogans demanding secret ballot #floortest
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
DMK MLAs gherao Assembly Speaker Dhanapal, demanding secret ballot #floortest
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
MLAs should be given time to meet people and know their views: R Natarajan AIADMK MLA(OPS camp)
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
Media shut down in the TN Assembly
ANI reports that the audio speaker kept in the Tamil Nadu Assembly Press Room, which is allocated for accredited reporters and cameramen, has been disconnected.
Audio speaker kept in Tamil Nadu assembly press room (allocated for accredited reporters and cameraman) has been disconnected. #floortest pic.twitter.com/hvo2v5ilC7
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
Speaker disinclined to change voting process or date of voting
O Panneerselvam asked that MLAs should be given time to hear the views of their constituency’s people and that adequate time should be given till then and also sought a secret ballot, however P Dhanapal, Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker said: “Nobody can interfere in my decision on how to vote.”
Nobody can interfere in my decision on how to vote: Tamil Nadu assembly Speaker P Dhanapal #FloorTest
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
Opposition and O Panneerselvam want the floot test deferred
“MLAs should be allowed to go to their constituencies and come back to vote for the confidence motion,” he said.
People's voice should be heard and then only the #floortest should be done in the assembly: O #Panneerselvam (file pic) pic.twitter.com/6cWUfbO3ZL
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
Chaos ahead of voting process
There is immense chaos in the House at the moment. The speaker has denied the request to defer the floor test to another day.
DMK is batting for O Panneerselvam
“The floor-test should be done on another day. Why the hurry when the Governor has given 15 days time?” asks MK Stalin from the DMK. “Democracy will be fullfilled, only when secret ballot voting is done,” he added.
#Floortest should be done on another day. Why the hurry when the Governor has given 15 days time?: MK Stalin,DMK
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
Voting process begins
Entry to the Assembly is now closed as the voting process begins. Voting will be held in six segments and it will be decided by head count. 230 members present and voting.
‘We voted for JJ, we feel cheated’
Ashwin Shankar tells Firstpost.
Jammers all over, mics are off
With the Special Assembly session on, local media rails against the lack of transparency. Jammers all over, mics inside Assembly reportedly have been switched off.
‘We don’t care who wins, just want to know how Jaya died’
There are two ways to enter Secretariat, one’s the heavily guarded main gate through which ministers and bureaucrats enter and the other gate which common folks use. If you take that scenic route, you get the pulse of the non-politicos, just past the little Ganesha temple that dots the walkway into the main Assembly building.
Almost in tandem with the gathering chaos in the State’s politics, junior staffers who dot the Secretariat are more willing to speak to strangers. “We don’t care who wins or who loses today.
Anyway, this party won’t win the next election. I just want to know what happened to Jayalalithaa. How did she die? Why was only Sasikala allowed to see her and nobody else?”, says a security guard who says she owes her job appointment to Jayalalithaa.
Three MLAs from O Panneerselvam’s camp likey to flip
Three MLAs from OPS faction likely to vote for EPS during confidence motion. Their names have not been revealed yet.
O Panneerselvam camp and Madhusudhanan used party letterhead to issue whip
O. Panneerselvam camp and Madhusudhanan use party letterhead to issue whip, reports @nimumurali
— News18 (@CNNnews18) February 18, 2017
O Panneerselvam camp names supporter MLA Semmalai as chief whip
Semmalai wants to speak in Assembly and the DMK supports his demand.
The plot thickens.. OPS camp names supporter MLA Semmalai as chief whip.. Whose whip will MLAs have to follow? @CNNnews18 pic.twitter.com/FxRhHCNCba
— Deepa Balakrishnan (@deepab18) February 18, 2017
TN Governor forwards OPS camp’s request for secret ballot
TN Governor has forwarded the request of the #OPS camp for a secret ballor to Speaker for consideration, reports @madhavpramod1
— T S Sudhir (@Iamtssudhir) February 18, 2017
DMK Working President MK Stalin walked to the Tamil Nadu assembly in protest
DMK Working President MK Stalin walked to the Tamil Nadu assembly in protest alleging his car was searched at the entrance pic.twitter.com/foDN4pXL73
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
Ten minutes before session begins, here’s a quick spot check on the numbers
How many does Palaniswami have, ‘officially’ 122?. In other words, OPS needs to pull away just 6 more to deny Sasikala a sweet victory. OPS and Co are appealing repeatedly to the AIADMK MLAs’ conscience, MLAs who are breaking ranks are also quoting their soul and conscience, but look deeper than what’s said for the cameras and you’ll find a four letter word that’s always decides battles that are ostensibly about principles and conscience. Fear. We must consider the individual circumstances of each of those possible rebels for us to figure if they will vote with OPS or not. Their conscience may tell them voting for Sasikala is wrong but they still might.
Do they have a wedding coming up in the family, is there real estate litigation they may be fighting where they need Dinakaran’s help? Does a child in the family need medical college admission and not have enough marks to get in on merit?
If it’s not a secret ballot and everyone knows who’s knifed them, will they fear for their personal safety? Certainly they will.
Sasikala is from a community known for its rough and ready methods of revenge, often with sickles in hand.
Remember that awesome Sivaji Ganesan-Kamal Haasan starrer Thevar Magan? Dissent is not something these folks take kindly to. That’s where Sasikala’s vow at Jayalalithaa’s memorial came from.
Amma (OPS) vs Chinamma (EPS)
The way the narrative is building up, it is Amma (O Panneerselvam) versus Chinnamma (E Panneerselvam). Both incidentally declared corrupt by the Supreme Court.
With OPS seen as a betrayer by the Sasikala camp, hope his security won’t be compromised inside the Assembly. Tamil Nadu House has a history of violence
E Palaniswami pays tribute to Singaravelar
Tamil Nadu chief minister Edappadi K Palaniswami paid tribute to labour leader Singaravelar on the158th birth anniversary.
Chennai: Tamil Nadu CM Edappadi K Palaniswami paid tribute to labour leader Singaravelar on 158th birth anniversary (earlier visuals) pic.twitter.com/eaDeYoiPLK
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
Congress to vote against the confidence motion
Congress will be voting against the confidence motion in Tamil Nadu Assembly’s special session.
Congress to vote against the confidence motion in Tamil Nadu assembly's special session today #FloorTest pic.twitter.com/dIyhUuZFwN
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
Unprecedented security cover at Fort St George
Less than an hour to go before the trust vote. When was the last time we saw MLAs walking more than the minimum number of steps out from their cars and into the Assembly?
The entire DMK contingent is walking quite a distance to get into the Assembly main gate — today’s the day for visuals rarely seen in Tamil Nadu politics near the Secretariat and unprecedented security cover at Fort St George campus.
New chief secretary Girija Vaidyanathan and the State’s top officials have planned for this days in advance, so no gaps there.
Congress MLAs reach state secratariat
Congress MLAs reach Tamil Nadu assembly ahead of the #floortest pic.twitter.com/rqAijbTkRK
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
TTV Dinakaran, Sasikala’s nephew is not the best candidate
Sasikala’s nephew TTV Dinakaran is a crook, that’s what most of Tamil Nadu minus Sasikala’s cronies think. Dinakaran narrowly escaped in the DA case.
He was Accused Number 5 through a supplementary charge-sheet but did not face trial “for want of evidence.” Last month the Madras High Court upheld a fine of Rs 25 crore imposed on Dhinakaran in a two-decade old FERA violation case for illegal remittance of suitcase loads of cash into various bank accounts.
The High Court recently directed him and Sasikala to face trial in a couple of Foreign Exchange Regulation Act (FERA) violation cases – all registered during 1995-96.
Sasikala,now in jail, has two additional FERA violation cases to deal with. Yet, the sobering reality is this — Indian politicians charged with terrible crimes are three times as likely to win elections and occupy plum posts in government as those who have not, according to a new bestseller When Crime Pays: Money and Muscle in Indian Politics which traces the rise of the thug-candidate.
News breaking this morning is that TTV Dhinakaran, not satisfied with just an AIADMK party post, wanted to be a minister before the swearing in ceremony of Palaniswami. Governor Vidyasagar Rao stepped on the brakes and said he needs legal opinion.
If Palaniswami wins the trust vote, Dhinakaran’s rule in TN is a foregone conclusion. “What a fall for Tamil Nadu!”, says a local who prefers to be anonymous. “Please don’t quote me, you know those guys are goons,” he says.
Special Public Prosecutor in Sasikala’s Disproportionate Assets case reacts
“You can’t say it is a vote exercised by them (MLAs who stayed in resort) out of their free will…They’re not given opportunity,huddled together in a resort with other MLAs.Where is the chance of any free thinking,deliberation? Governor should have brought in President’s rule for at least 2-3 months so that normalcy prevails and so that MLAs are free not under threat”
They're not given opportunity,huddled together in a resort with other MLAs.Where is the chance of any free thinking,deliberation?:BV Acharya pic.twitter.com/fwrz9Ec3Tj
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
O Panneerselvam’s supporters arrested
The Hindu reported that supporters of O Panneerselvam were arrested near Adyar for protesting against MLAs coming in to vote in the floor test in the Tamil Nadu Assembly.
AIADMK and conscience
If O Panneerselvam cannot influence 6-7 MLAs out of the 122 to vote against E Palaniswami, it will most likely mean that the AIADMK has no conscience and that Panneerselvam isn’t good enough.
If #OPS cant influence 6-7 MLAs out of 122 to vote against #EPS, it means the aiadmk has no conscience and that OPS just isnt good enough
— T S Sudhir (@Iamtssudhir) February 18, 2017
MK Stalin leaves for the special Assembly session
#TamilNadu: DMK Working President MK Stalin leaves for assembly to attend special session #FloorTest (file picture) pic.twitter.com/WHMN2oKuLu
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
High security
Close to 1500 police personnel were deployed all the way from the RBI subway to the War memorial.
#TamilNadu: Barricading, Heavy police deployment outside TN secretariat ahead of floor test. pic.twitter.com/tytdpOBmC0
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
E Palaniswami-camp MLAs will make a pitstop at Amma memorial
Before heading to Assembly, the MLAs from E Palaniswami’s camp will make a pitstop at Amma memorial
#EPS MLAs will make a pitstop at Amma memorial before heading to Assembly. Risky becoz thats the spot where conscience knocks at the mind
— T S Sudhir (@Iamtssudhir) February 18, 2017
Tamil Nadu Congress high command will vote against E Palaniswami
Tamil Nadu Congress high command says they will vote against Edappadi Palaniswami, reports CNN News 18.
Tamil Nadu Congress high command says they will vote against Edappadi Palanisamy, reports @_pallavighosh
— News18 (@CNNnews18) February 18, 2017
Golden Bay Resorts MLAs react:
AIADMK Party MLAs leaving Kuvathur's Golden Bay resort say "we will win, heading to the assembly" #TamilNadu #FloorTest pic.twitter.com/JBeJRPblpG
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
We have to safeguard our party, symbol and the Government. Will work with Chinamma: AIADMK MLA leaves Kuvathur resort #FloorTest pic.twitter.com/SimJ54eatj
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
Whip issued for all party MLAs, we will vote accordingly: Thoppu N D Venkatachalam, AIADMK MLA leaves Kuvathur resort #FloorTest #TamilNadu pic.twitter.com/P72eFZHaY9
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
AIADMK party MLAs leaving Kuvathur's Golden Bay resort, will attend special session of the Tamil Nadu assembly #FloorTest pic.twitter.com/R8myWTH8BZ
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
K Pandiarajan of AIADMK calls it a ‘historic day’
“A historic day in the Dharma Yudh — confidence motion in Tamil Nadu Assembly — trust voice of conscience and voice of Amma’s soul dominate decisions!” said K Pandiarajan.
We don't think we are in single digit. We believe 135 people should vote for us: M Pandiarajan,Former TN Minister & OPS supporter #FloorTest pic.twitter.com/mgeaL5hV2D
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
Amma's legacy rests on abled shlders of OPS, this will be driving force to vote,not temporary confinement of brainwashing: M Pandiarajan pic.twitter.com/Blk9PxYdC5
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2017
White Toyotas, red beacon lights and lucky number 9
How many white Toyota Innovas with red beacon lights and India flags can you count jamming the long road leading from Golden Bay Resorts in Koovathur to Secretariat?
“Vedikayaa-irukku, yaarai-yemaathuraanga? (It’s high comedy, who are they trying to fool?),” say locals still coming to terms with the idea of another election so soon after the last one in 2016 — certainly a possibility until we know the result of the trust vote today. Most of the cars have some combination of lucky number 9 on the number plate and Sasikala’s cronies have ensured that all the cars hold at least three people so that there are no more escapees en route. Less trusted MLAs are counterbalanced by out and out sycophants.
Strict instructions have been handed to drivers not to stop midway to buy newspapers. Just in case they step out of the line, there’s a second line of checks too — escort vehicles tailing these Toyotas just to ensure compliance. All this is why locals are questioning the Governor’s move to swear in Palaniswamy. Although the official line is that the Governor could not wait any longer, the stark visuals tell us all we need to know about how free these Golden Bay inmates are.
Anti-Sasikala, anti-Dinakaran voices are loud
Some questions can get asked only when Sasikala is safely out of the ring and the reasons are not hard to figure – her hold on strongmen who can give you a black eye or two.
One of those questions dominating local political sparring today is this: “Why didn’t you call her Chinnamma when Jayalalithaa was alive?” Simple and loaded, it’s an answer too.
As it gets clearer that today’s trust vote will be keenly fought and people see election 2017 as a lesser evil than tolerating Sasikala, it’s precisely the day to raise the pitch against TTV Dinakaran and co. Tomorrow may be too late.
What happens if there is a no-confidence vote?
If the confidence motion ends up in a negative note, then the ball would be in Governor’s court and he could invite anyone else from the house to form the government be it O Panneerselvam or MK Stalin, why not, even Thamimun Ansari as anything is possible in Indian politics.
Read moreFive tier security at Tamil Nadu Sate Secretariat
E Palaniswami arrives at the State Secretariat in Chennai for the crucial floor test amid high security.
Advantage OPS
With AIADMK bouncers guarding every escape route, it’s not easy but vernacular news reporters are telling us that at least one more from the resort has run away — MLA Arun Kumar. Sounds plausible because those left behind at the Resort on the big swearing-in day for Palanisamy were the ones not trusted enough by Sasikala. They were the ones likely to go rogue.
Even if OPS’ appeal to their conscience is not enough, MLAs leading the horizontal split within the party are reportedly being swayed by news of how thin the majority may be and the anger building up in their constiuencies against Sasikala’s family spilling out in the open. For those who side with Palanisamy, it’s likely a one term wonder — no matter how short.
Being known to side with Sasikala, there’s almost no way they’ll survive another election. All this is advantage OPS.
1988 trust vote led to violence
When was the last time Tamil Nadu had a situation like today? What happened then? The tinsel factor was way higher in 1988 when after the death of M G Ramachandran, a similar split broke the party between MGR’s widow Janaki Ramachandran and the late J Jayalalithaa — then propaganda secretary of the AIADMK.
That trust vote was held on 27 January, 1988 when the Jayalalithaa group was headed by VR Nedunchezhiyan. Violence broke out and police stormed into the Assembly.
Governor Rao told EPS to take legal advice on Dinakaran
Big newsbreak: sources say governor rao told #EPS that he will have to take legal advice on #Dinakaran and cant swear him in immediately
— T S Sudhir (@Iamtssudhir) February 18, 2017
TTV Dinakaran’s name figured as minister, Governor refused
Big newsbreak : Sources tell me in the initial list submitted to Raj Bhavan, TTV #Dinakaran's name figured as minister. Governor refused
— T S Sudhir (@Iamtssudhir) February 18, 2017
MLAs on their way to Chennai
Edappadi Palaniswami-camp MLAs are now on their way to Chennai to participate in the floor test. All the MLAs have left the Golden Bay Resort.
MLA Arun Kumar of Palaniswami camp by-passes floor test
MLA Arun Kumar by-passed the floor test and has returned to his constituency. The MLA also resigned from the post of Coimbatore district secretary post.
DMK president and Thiruvarur MLA M Karunanidhi is also not participating in the floor test.
Voting process is still mysterious
Sources from the Koovathur Golden Bay Resorts, where all 124 supporting MLAs of Sasikala faction are accomodated told that, as many as 18 MLAs from the faction lined up against Palanisamy and that is why they were not brought to the swearing in ceremony of the cabinet. However, the party sources denied the claim and have ensured that they are strongly united and will continue their rule in the State.
The situation is almost like a cat on a wall as the voting process predictions are still mysterious even hours before the session.
If Palanisamy cabinet triumphs, then it is going to be a successful four year rule for the Sasikala faction. And OPS faction MLAs could be terminated from office as they don’t stand alongside of the party’s decision.
Read more here.OPS pleaded with AIADMK members on Friday
Panneerselvam read out a statement at his residence making a passionate plea to AIADMK MLAs, saying that it was late Jayalalithaa’s wish to end dynastic rule in Tamil Nadu. “If you are Amma’s true loyalists, you should vote against the (Palaniswamy) government when it seeks trust vote in the Assembly tomorrow,” he said.
My AIADMK vs your AIADMK
Sasikala kicked out OPS and OPS cancelled her out. So, who is theAIADMK party? Even EC is asking Sasikala to explain how she became General Secretary.
Meanwhile, that there’s a horizontal split within the AIADMK is no secret either. This is not about OPS versus Sasikala, it’s the rank and file versus the MLAs, it’s the fight for the soul of the party which can’t be fixed over mutton biryani and booze at Golden Bay resorts. This is about starting at the beginning, going to the constituencies, winning back trust.
Of the 123 MLAs who owe allegiance to Sasikala for either love or money, 31 are ministers, what about the rest? How will they be kept happy? What’s in it for them to watch their peers enjoy the perks of high office? One method is that the spoils of power instead of flowing upwards will be redistributed down the line to keep MLAs who are not ministers happy.
The other is that they are promised and /or given plum posts in Corporations and high visibility local bodies.
Election 2017?
What works best for the DMK? An election, of course. With Jayalalithaa dead, Karunanidhi alive, Sasikala in jail and her family clawing so desperately to run Tamil Nadu, public sentiment against status quo is at a peak never seen in the last half century.
The DMK (89-1) and its allies Congress (8) and IUML (1), have 98 members in all because DMK’s M Karunanidhi will not be attending the floor test. The Congress, despite some insiders softening towards Sasikala, would not want to upset its ally DMK.
Chief of TN Congress, S Thirunavukkarasar said “All our 8 MLAs will attend trust vote.” If both the AIADMK factions fail to win the trust vote, it’s election time, folks.
No secret ballot
A floor test is not restricted to ruling party members — it’s for all present and voting, it’s not secret ballot. DMK will vote against the confidence motion moved by Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palanisami, Congress has indicated likewise. Edappadi has 123 on his side. Mylapore MLA R Natraj who stayed in his constituency throughout the last 10 days while the crisis played out, said his vote is not for Palanisamy.
“I’m feeling heavy inside. People and party cadre are extremely angry about the recent developments and I have to respect their feelings. So mine will be a conscience vote and not just a confidence vote tomorrow," Natraj told media Friday.
“This mandate was not won by Pannerselvam or Palanisamy, but late Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa. So what is the point in claiming their rights on it over and over again?”, he said.
Confidence? None at all
It’s nerves in both factions of the AIADMK, far more in the one that’s jail-controlled. Palanisamy is just a footnote, all eyes are on crown prince TTV Dhinakaran.
About 16-18 captive MLAs in the resort were not transported in luxury buses to Chennai at all — those more liable to jump ship who were not present at the swearing-in ceremony of the Cabinet.
On Saturday, expect violence, be surprised if it’s a peaceful weekend. Mannargudi’s mustachioed brotherhood is not to be taken lightly — smashing a few windowpanes, beer bottles, a bloody nose or two — welcome to JJ’s old fortress, now occupied by her minders, schemers and ticket distributors.
Tamil Nadu’s first trust vote in 30 years: Here are all the updated numbers
233 – Trust vote is basis all present and voting. With M. Karunanidhi unwell and unlikely to attend and Jayalalithaa dead, the total strength for the trust vote is 233.
124? – Palaniswami claims he has 124 but they’re not so sure anymore. R Nataraj, MLA from Mylapore constituency in Chennai and former DGP will be voting against Palaniswami.
11- This is the number on OPS’ side for now, including former Chennai Police Commissioner R. Natraj.
AIADMK whip S. Rajendiran issued a directive to all party MLAs to attend the Assembly and vote in favour of the motion.
8 – Tamil Nadu Congress Committee has deferred till 9 a.m. today its decision. Will most likely toe DMK line. Congress has 8 members in the Tamil Nadu Assembly.
89 – DMK leader Stalin, whose party has 89 in the House, decided they should not make it easy for Palaniswami by abstaining from the vote.
1 – M Karunanidhi won’t surface today so that’s one less vote against AIADMK.
18 – Word is that this is the number of MLAs not so thrilled about Palanisamy’s elevation to the State’s top job. Expect jealousy and infighting to surface, unless Sasikala’s family has arm twisted everyone into behaving.
E Palaniswami faces floor test on Saturday at 11 am
Updates from 18 February, 2017 begin
Panneerselvam asks MLAs to vote against the trust vote
On Friday evening, OPS asked MLAs to not buckle under the pressure and to safeguard Jayalalithaa’s interests by voting against the trust vote. He also lashed out against Sasikala and her family. He said, “Please vote against the trust vote and safeguard the interests of Amma.I reiterate to AIADMK MLAs,please think wisely before casting your vote tomorrow. Don’t buckle under pressure.”
Amma continously worked to see that family rule doesn't enter Tamil politics,till her last she worked to achieve this goal: O #Pannerselvam pic.twitter.com/GfPgk5gb7j
— ANI (@ANI) February 17, 2017
EC issues notice to Sasikala
On Friday, Election Commission issued a notice to VK Sasikala on a petition filed by Dr. V Maitreyan, challenging her nomination as general secretary of AIADMK.
VK Sasikala has been asked to reply by 28 February 2017: Election Commission (file pic) pic.twitter.com/g2ZQvtWMbS
— ANI (@ANI) February 17, 2017
If he(TN CM) seeks vote of confidence tomorrow,we will oppose him in the assembly. Our 89 MLAs will vote against him:MK Stalin,DMK pic.twitter.com/ZFdkA3AI6A
— ANI (@ANI) February 17, 2017
Former DGP Nataraj of AIADMK to vote against Palaniswami
AIADMK legislator representing Mylapore constituency and former Director General of Police (DGP) R Nataraj on Friday said he would vote against Palaniswami.
Following Nataraj’s about turn at the last minute, Palaniswami’s support base is down to 124 legislators.
IANS
AIADMK Presidium Chairman Madhusudhanan(#OPS camp)sacks 13distt secys inclg CM Edappadi Palaniswami,who's Salem's distt secy also.(File Pic) pic.twitter.com/jCMDSZNX5F
— ANI (@ANI) February 17, 2017
DMK MLAs meeting headed by MK Stalin starts in Chennai HQ ahead of tomorrow's TN Assembly floor test.
— ANI (@ANI) February 17, 2017
Will prove majority in Assembly: Palaniswami
Palaniswami, soon after being sworn-in as the chief minister, exuded confidence that he will prove his majority in the Assembly.
“I wish to say that Amma’s (Jayalalithaa) government will continue by me proving majority in the Assembly,” Palaniswami told reporters on Thursday, in his first media interaction.
The governor had asked the newly sworn-in chief minister to seek the vote of confidence in the Assembly within 15 days but Palaniswami is all set to move a vote of confidence in the Legislative Assembly on Saturday.
Read full report here .
According to party rules, he(Madhusudanan) has no power to remove General Secy(#VKSasikala): Tamil Nadu Minister KA Sengottayan pic.twitter.com/XZFLLI4bDE
— ANI (@ANI) February 17, 2017
#OPanneerselvam writes letter to TN Police requesting them not to arrest Amma supporters who are peacefully protesting against current Govt.
— ANI (@ANI) February 17, 2017
#OPanneerselvam writes letter to TN Police requesting them not to arrest Amma supporters who are peacefully protesting against current Govt.
— ANI (@ANI) February 17, 2017
If #sasikala's election as gen secy of aiadmk is struck down by EC, can she atleast become prez of ktaka unit of aiadmk? #justasking
— T S Sudhir (@Iamtssudhir) February 17, 2017
A political potboiler
Will the AIADMK survive the next four years and stay in power?
Will the AIADMK survive the next four years and stay in power? It looks extremely difficult because there are too many factors that are not in its control.
One, It has a razor thin majority now. Any conflict and Palaniswami will have to ensure that he keeps the entire flock happy. Apart from cabinet berths, he will have to ensure the MLAs are rewarded with plum posts of chairmen of corporations.
Read full analysis here .
Honourable Minister Thiru.KA Sengottayan appointed as Floor Leader of TN Assembly.#TNAssembly
— AIADMK (@AIADMKOfficial) February 17, 2017
Palaniswami thanks Modi
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami on Friday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for congratulating him on taking up the state’s top post.
“I thank you for your greetings and good wishes on my being sworn in as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu,” he told Modi in a letter.
Spoke to Thiru Edappadi K. Palaniswami & congratulated him on taking over as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 16, 2017
Panneerselvam camp demands secret ballot to decide on confidence motion
Panneerselvam’s camp has demanded secret ballot on Saturday when the motion of confidence is moved in the assembly, leaders said.
After holding hectic discussions at Panneerselvam’s residence on Friday morning, a small group of AIADMK leaders met the Speaker in the Secretariat and demanded secret ballot on Saturday.
The assembly has been convened on Saturday where Palaniswami with 125 legislators in his camp will seek the confidence of the house for his government.
IANS
DMK’s strategy will impact Palanaswami’s chances in the floor test
The DMK legislature party which has 89 MLAs will meet in a while from now to formulate its strategy in Saturday’s trust vote. With the apprehension that the Sasikala camp of AIADMK may have reached out to some DMK MLAs to vote in its favour, DMK could consider not taking part in the voting.
The OPS camp needs seven more MLAs to cross over from Sasikala camp and vote against the Palaniswami government for it to fall.
Whatever happens if it's through a democratic process, everybody will be happy: MLA R Nataraj, AIADMK on TN Assembly floor test pic.twitter.com/fWC2WXtViY
— ANI (@ANI) February 17, 2017
Don’t smile at me: Stalin’s advice to Palaniswami
DMK’s Working President M.K. Stalin on Friday advised newly-sworn-in Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palanisamy against smiling at him in the assembly.
The strange advice came just a few days after AIADMK General Secretary V.K. Sasikala had noted that former Chief Minister O Panneerselvam had smiled at Stalin — and cited that as one of the reasons for asking him to step down.
Reacting to that, Panneerselvam had said smiling at another human being is one of the qualities that differentiates humans from animals.
IANS
Continuation of new TN CM after floor test a question mark: Union Minister Radhakrishnan
Expressing doubts whether the newly sworn-in Edappadi K Palaniswami-led government in Tamil Nadu would continue after Saturday’s floor test, Union Minister Pon Radhakrishnan said “only God knows its fate.”
The present government will not be able to provide a stable and corruption-free administration as expected by the people, he added.
PTI
DMK acting president MK Stalin has called an emergency meeting of his MLAs to strategise ahead of Saturday’s floor test.
In this whole operation of installing Palanisamy as CM, the TN BJP turned out to be a pathetic zero. The Guv did exactly what I advocated
— Subramanian Swamy (@Swamy39) February 17, 2017
OPS vs EPS
The story clearly isn’t over yet in Tamil Nadu. The effort of the OPS camp is now to somehow ensure E Palaniswami (EPS) loses the trust vote on Saturday.
It may be a touch and go with Mylapore MLA R Natraj, former DGP saying he will go with what the people want.
Interestingly, state BJP leaders have been in touch with Panneerselvam since Thursday. On Friday, Union minister Pon Radhakrishnan said it is unlikely that Palaniswami will stay CM after Saturday’s floor test.
But the EPS camp is confident as all its MLAs are still at the resort. The OPS camp claims several of them have been threatened with dire consequences if they defy Sasikala. Everything will then depend on how they vote on Saturday.
‘Sasikala violated promise to Jayalalithaa’
In his statement, E Madusudhanan alleged that Sasikala “violated” her promise to Jayalalithaa that she will not enter politics and that she had no inclination to be a part of the party or government.
“VK Sasikala is being removed from the party’s primary membership for going against the party principles and ideals, and having violated her promise to Amma (Jayalalithaa), besides facing criminal cases. She has brought disrepute to the party,” he said in a statement.
Madusudanan also announced the “expulsion” of TTV Dinakaran and S Venkatesh. He said Jayalalithaa had earlier (in 2011) expelled them from the party for “betraying” her. “Their re-induction, done without any authority, is being cancelled,” he said.
PTI
#OPS camp now determined to ensure EPS loses the trust vote. Governor has made it clear to EPS that if vote less than 118 and he goes
— T S Sudhir (@Iamtssudhir) February 17, 2017
Members from #OPanneerselvam camp meet Assembly Speaker #PDhanapal, a day ahead of the confidence vote.
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 17, 2017
Statement released by E Madhusudhanan
— AIADMK (@AIADMKOfficial) February 17, 2017
Scene outside OPS’ house
Crowd almost nil but a large number of police personnel have been deployed at the main entrance of OPS’ house at Greenways Road. Functionaries keep thronging in. Sources say, Mylapore MLA Nataraj might join hands with OPS.
A fractured party
E Madhusudhanan, a senior leader in the AIADMK, recently moved to the O Panneerselvam camp and was sacked as the presidium chairman by Sasikala. According to The Indian Express , Panneerselvam called Madhusudhanan his brother and said after Jayalalithaa passed away, it was told to him that Madhusudhanan would be the party general secretary, while OPS will remain CM.
Though Madhusudhanan is in the OPS camp, he had said that Sasikala was “worthy of becoming the chief minister”.
DMK has made it very clear that we'll not be against/for it; we'll not be participating: Kanimozhi, DMK on Assembly floor test pic.twitter.com/wKyX04z5RG
— ANI (@ANI) February 17, 2017
‘Dinakaran’s appointment illegal’
E Madhusudhanan told The Hindu on Thursday that the appointment of TTV Dinakaran as deputy general secretary was illegal. Stating the party bylaws, he said that the post can be held by a person who has been a party member for five continuous years.
Dinakaran was expelled from the party in 2011, said the report.
#TamilNadu: E Madhusudanan also removes #VKSasikala's nephew TTV Dinakaran & S Venkatesh from their respective party posts
— ANI (@ANI) February 17, 2017
#TamilNadu: AIADMK Presidium Chairman E Madhusudanan removes #VKSasikala from primary membership of the party
— ANI (@ANI) February 17, 2017
AIADMK MLA M Natarajan to vote against Palaniswami in floor test
AIADMK’s MLA from Mylapore M Natarajan has reportedly refused to vote for the newly appointed Chief Minister E Palaniswami ahead of the Saturday’s floor test, according to India Today TV.
The news report also said that the MLA has pledged to join the OPS camp.
Narendra Modi congratulates TN CM Edappadi Palaniswami
Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks to Edappadi K Palaniswami and congratulates him on taking over as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.
— PTI
OPS camp to organise rallies, campaign against new govt | ANI
We will take out rallies and campaigns in various constituencies to make people aware of the situation: #OPanneerselvam pic.twitter.com/uNG0kBgyE0
— ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2017
The TN government sworn-in today is anti people**: OPS | ANI**
The TN government sworn-in today is anti people: #OPanneerselvam after visiting #Jayalalithaa 's memorial at Marina Beach, Chennai pic.twitter.com/xUY2UpMUj8
— ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2017
Tamil Nadu Assembly to convene on 18 February, floor test likely | ANI
After the oath ceremony, the AIADMK MLAs headed to the Golden Bay Resort, ANI said. Meanwhile, according to the news agency, the Tamil Nadu Assembly will convene on 18 February and a floor test will take place on the same day.
DMK leader, MK Stalin has congratulated the Edappadi Palaniswami government, however, he reminded the new chief minister of Tamil Nadu to remember his oath while carrying out his official duties.
Vote of Confidence to be taken on February 18: AIADMK #TNAssembly
— ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2017
Chennai (TN): #AIADMK MLAs head back to Kuvathur's Golden Bay resort after Tamil Nadu cabinet and CM E. Palanisamy's oath ceremony. pic.twitter.com/2Jp9I6wqRj
— ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2017
Chief ministers of Tamil Nadu
‘Sasikala’s cunning strategy pays off, she rules from jail’
Within 24 hours of VK Sasikala going behind bars, her proxies are front and centre in Tamil Nadu as state’s voters struggle to come to terms with this bitter harvest. Cartoonists for Tamil rags are having a busy day, every headline screams: “Sasikala’s cunning strategy pays off, she rules from jail”.
Palaniswami retains Finance portfolio
E Palaniswami was the first to take oath, followed by 30 ministers in batches.
He has retained the crucial Finance Ministry along with portfolios of Public Works, Highways and Minor Ports.
A Raj Bhavan statement said senior party leaders C Sreenivasan and KA Sengottaiyan have been designated as Minister for Forests and Minister for School Education and Sports and Youth Welfare.
P Thangamani will be in charge of Electricity, Prohibition and Excise.
The other ministers are: K Raju, SP Velumani, D Jayakumar, C.Ve Shanmugam, KP Anbalagan, V Saroja, MC Sampath, KC Karuppanan, R Kamaraj, OS Manian, K Radhakrishnan, C Vijaya Baskar, R Doraikkannu, Kadambur Raju, RB Udhayakumar, N Natarajan, KC Veeramani, KT Rajenthra Bhalaji, P Benjamin, Nilofer Kafeel, MR Vijayabaskar, M Manikandan, VM Rajjalakshmi, G Baskaran, S Ramachandran, S Valarmathi and P Balakrishna Reddy.
IANS
Chennai: TN CM E. Palanisamy and #VKSasikala's nephew TTV Dhinakaran pay tribute at #Jayalalithaa's memorial at Marina Beach. pic.twitter.com/NzcAo79tby
— ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2017
#TNPoliticalCrisis: Clash between newly appointed minister C. V. Shanmugam's supporters and #OPanneerselvam's supporters. pic.twitter.com/0vaDnm3SuB
— ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2017
Governor should ensure no ‘horse trading’ by AIADMK: Stalin
DMK working president MK Stalin on Thursday said the 15 days time given to AIADMK’s Edappadi K Palaniswami to prove his majority would result in horse trading and bargaining by legislators.
Stalin said though he welcomes Governor C Vidyasagar Rao’s decision, the 15-day “is too long a duration that would lead to horse trading”.
The Governor should see to it that horse trading does not happen, he said.
IANS
Where did OPS go wrong?
Media analysts and experts believe the big mistake caretaker chief minister O Panneerselvam made was to trust that the rebel MLAs would back him after VK Sasikala’s conviction came through. But considering almost half of them were first-time MLAs who didn’t fancy the prospect of facing another round of elections, they chose to go with safety in numbers. And that may have helped keep the AIADMK party together, and send E Palaniswami to the chief minister’s chair.
Governor Rao with the newly inducted Cabinet
Chennai: Governor C.Vidyasagar Rao with the newly sworn-in Tamil Nadu Cabinet pic.twitter.com/LwrY2U2dym
— ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2017
Sasikala convicted: ‘Restless’ Chinnamma has a hard time in Bengaluru jail
AIADMK General Secretary VK Sasikala spent a tough first night in jail, as she was unable to sleep and was restless at night. As the trial court denied Sasikala’s demand for some privileges, including home food, she refused to have supper on Wednesday night though she was served two rotis, one ragi ball, 200 gms of rice and 150 gm of sambar, like all other inmates. “When Saskiala’s sister-in-law and co-convict Elavarasi cajoled her to have food in view of her weak health, she took rice with sambar and butter milk,” a jail source said. The judge also rejected Sasikala’s request for a special room for prayers and yoga and an attached toilet-cum-bathroom.
To read the full report, click here
MLAs may go back to resort
Media is reporting that other than new chief minister E Palaniswami and his Cabinet, who are heading to ‘Amma’ memorial, the remainder of the 100-odd MLAs may be heading back to the Golden Bay resort, which is where they will stay until the date for the floor test is announced by the Assembly.
Palaniswami, Cabinet to visit Jayalalithaa’s memorial
Newly sworn in Tamil Nadu chief minister E Palaniswamy and his 30 Cabinet members to visit ‘Amma’ memorial at Marina Beach, and may even visit VK Sasikala, lodged in a prison in Bangalore.
30 ministers inducted into chief minister E Palaniswami’s Cabinet
Honourable Governor administers oath of office and secrecy to Honourable Chief Minister Thiru.Edapadi K.Palanisamy & council of ministers.
— AIADMK (@AIADMKOfficial) February 16, 2017
Srinivasan, Sengottiyan, Jayakumar all find place in Palaniswami’s Cabinet
#AIADMKCrisis: Dindigul C Srinivasan, KA Sengottiyan, D Jayakumar find place in #EdappadiPalaniswami cabinet. #LIVE: https://t.co/kcYJHtDrVM pic.twitter.com/8v0OVcMdmb
— Firstpost (@firstpost) February 16, 2017
Oath of office administered to Palaniswami
Chennai: E. Palanisamy takes oath as next Tamil Nadu CM pic.twitter.com/LaRxCgGvsZ
— ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2017
Palaniswami takes oath
#AIADMKcrisis: #EdappadiPalaniswami sworn in as #TamilNadu CM. #LIVE: https://t.co/kcYJHtDrVM pic.twitter.com/vzwGQ4qkBx
— Firstpost (@firstpost) February 16, 2017
Will Palaniswami visit Sasikala in prison?
After becoming CM, #palanisamy will go to amma memorial. Tomorrow #aiadmk party leaders say he will go to blore jail
— T S Sudhir (@Iamtssudhir) February 16, 2017
Governor reaches Raj Bhavan to administer oath of office
All AIADMK MLAs are ready, and governor C Vidyasagar Rao has reached Raj Bhavan to administer the oath of office to new Chief Minister E Palaniswami and 30 ministers part of his new Cabinet.
E Palaniswami’s oath ceremony to begin at Raj Bhavan shortly | ANI
Chennai: Tamil Nadu cabinet and CM-designate E. Palanisamy's oath ceremony to begin at Raj Bhavan, shortly. pic.twitter.com/sso57mYksH
— ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2017
AIADMK leaders reach Raj Bhavan for oath ceremony
Chennai: AIADMK leaders reach Raj Bhavan for Tamil Nadu cabinet and CM-designate E. Palanisamy's oath ceremony. pic.twitter.com/PXY5mBAUqK
— ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2017
31 MLAs including Palaniswami to be sworn in today at 4.30
Edappadi Palaniswami to manage 18 portfolios including Public Works, Highways and Ports that he was managing earlier. Here are all the names and the respective ministeries they will be managing in the new Palaniswami ministry:
| Name | Designation |
| K Palaniswami | Chief Minister |
| C Sreenivasan | Minister of Forests |
| KA Sengottaiyan | Minister for School Education & Sports and Youth Welfare |
| K Raju | Minister for Cooperation |
| P Thangamani | Ministry for Electricity, Prohibition and Excise |
| SP Velumani | Minister for Municipal Administration and Rural Development, Implementation of Special Programme |
| D Jayakumar | Minister for Fisheries |
| CV Shanmugam | Minister for Law, Courts and Prisons |
| KP Anbalagan | Minister for Higher Education |
| V Saroja | Minister for Social Welfare and Nutritious Noon Meal Programme |
| MC Sampath | Minister for Industries |
| KC Karuppanan | Minister for Environment |
| R Kamaraj | Minister for Food & Civil Supplies |
| OS Manjan | Minister for Handlooms and Textiles |
| K Radhakrishnan | Minister for Housing and Urban Development |
| Dr C Vijaya Baskar | Minister for Health and Family Welfare |
| R Doraikkantu | Minister for Agriculture |
| Kadambur Raju | Minister for Information and Publicity |
| RB Udhaykumar | Minister for Revenue |
| N Natarajan | Minister for Tourism |
| KC Veeramani | Minister for Commercial Taxes |
| KT Rajenthra Bhalaji | Minister for Milk and Dairy Development |
| P Benjamin | Minister for Rural Industries |
| Dr Nilofer Kafeel | Minister for Labour |
| MR Vijayabaskar | Minister for Transport |
| M Manikandan | Minister for Information Technology |
| VM Rajalakshmi | Minister for Adi Dravidar and Tribal Welfare |
| G Baskaran | Minister for Khadi and Village Industries Board |
| S Ramachandran | Minister for Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments |
| S Valarmathi | Minister for Backward Classes and Minorities Welfare |
| P Balakrishna Reddy | Minister for Animal Husbandry |
31 MLAs including E Palaniswami to take oath today | ANI
31 ministers including Tamil Nadu CM E. Palanisamy to take oath today. pic.twitter.com/Jlt5tQcOuf
— ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2017
OPS supporters to select next leader of party | ANI
Now, we'll go back to our party supporters & discuss as to who'll lead the party next: S Semmalai, AIADMK (#OPS supporter) pic.twitter.com/WgmQe6q00N
— ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2017
Many MLAs will support only Amma’s rule and not rule of a family: K Pandiarajan | ANI
Many MLAs will support only Amma's rule and not rule of a family: K Pandiarajan, AIADMK (#OPS supporter) pic.twitter.com/HKNz8LN0s6
— ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2017
Sasikala camp celebrate Palaniswami’s election as CM, distribute payassam outside Golden Bay Resort | ANI
Tamil Nadu: AIADMK workers & supporters distribute payassam (sweet dish) outside Golden Bay Resort, after E.Palanisamy was elected as CM pic.twitter.com/tR2wPNI6RU
— ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2017
AIADMK MLAs leave from Golden Bay Resort in Koovathur | ANI
#AIADMK MLAs leave from Golden Bay Resort in Kovathur. pic.twitter.com/9OzqBOYCCi
— ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2017
Why 15 days have been given to CM to prove his majority? Governor himself is not confident: TKS Elangovan, DMK MP pic.twitter.com/UvCBOlRZ92
— ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2017
AIADMK MPs from Panneerselvam camp reach Election Commission office
OPS’ rebellion reminiscent of 2015 Jitan Ram Manjhi impasse in Bihar
The ongoing drama within the ruling AIADMK took a different turn on Thursday when Tamil Nadu Governor C Vidyasagar Rao invited Edappadi Palaniswami to form the Tamil Nadu government. The political drama, which began on 5 February, bore some similarities with the political impasse which took place in Bihar in February 2015.
Read full analysis here .
We'll continue with our 'dharm yudh' until Amma's rule is established: #OPanneerselvam pic.twitter.com/a3drOP2ont
— ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2017
Tamil Nadu’s new CM is staunch Jayalalithaa loyalist
E Palaniswami is a staunch loyalist of the late chief minister J Jayalalithaa. He was one of her chief advisers. He was tipped for the chief minister’s post after Jayalalithaa died but that did not happen.
From Nedungulam village in Salem district, Palaniswami belongs to the Gounder community. He joined the AIADMK in the 1980s and was a Jayalaltihaa supporter when the party split after MGR’s death in December 1987.
He first entered the Tamil Nadu Assembly in 1989 from Edapadi constituency and retained the seat in 1991. A farmer by profession, Palaniswami was on the sidelines for some time as he lost the Edapadi seat in 2006. He came back to limelight in 2011 after winning from the constituency.
IANS
Fight will continue: Panneerselvam
Tamil Nadu’s caretaker chief minister O Panneerselvam on Thursday said the fight will continue against “one family controlling the AIADMK”.
In an apparent reference to VK Sasikala, OPS said he launched a peaceful protest to save the party from becoming the property of one family.
This struggle, he said, gained good support from the people.
IANS
Story over for OPS: But he could be a strong anti-AIADMK voice in Tamil Nadu
O Panneerselvam story is temporarily over. He managed to tap into the anti-Sasikala sentiment but could not convince enough MLAs to jump ship. But with Mannargudi family still well entrenched in party and maybe even in the government, it gives OPS hope to rally AIADMK cadre around himself and position as an anti-AIADMK voice.
With Palaniswami in driver’s seat, how will BJP-led Centre deal with new Tamil Nadu government
With Palaniswami in the driver’s seat and the remote firmly in Sasikala’s hand, it would be interesting to see how the new government deals with the BJP-led Centre. The Centre needs the government’s support for getting its candidate elected as the next President of India. The AIADMK numbers are crucial also in the Rajya Sabha, where the government is currently outnumbered by the Opposition.
If Sasikala decides to avenge her humiliation by the Centre and decides to join the anti-BJP camp, it would turn out to be a lose-lose situation for everybody who supported Panneerselvam and thwarted Chinnamma’s dream.
Perhaps the road to Jayalalithaa’s legacy was jinxed. Everybody who tried to claim got scalded: Sasikala went to jail, the BJP got checkmated and Panneerselvam might disappear into oblivion.
Denouement seems rational and justified
Though Panneerselvam has been expelled from the party, he will continue to remain under the control of the party. In 2016, the government had clarified in the Supreme Court that upon expulsion from a political party, there is no automatic disqualification under the 10th Schedule of the Constitution from legislative assembly or Parliament and that member will continue as an unattached member as per the direction of the Speaker.
“However, if there is any overt act of either joining any other political party voluntarily or defies any whip of any political party then he will attract the provision of the 10th Schedule and action can be taken against him by the Speaker,” the government clarified.
This means if Panneerselvam and his supporters violate the AIADMK whip to support Palaniswami’s government in case of a floor test, they could be expelled from the Assembly. So, if Panneerselvam wishes to remain a member of the legislature, he would have to obey the diktat of the new high command.
In many ways, the denouement appears rational and justified. Panneerselvam was a proxy for J Jayalalithaa. After her demise, he had staked claim to her legacy citing his loyalty to the late CM. But, his current innings seems to have ended with the former CM. Courtiers and proxies often meet this end.
We will not let the party (AIADMK) go into the hands of few of #VKSasikala's family members: #OPanneerselvam (file pic) pic.twitter.com/DMxKrNy93t
— ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2017
End of OPS: With Sasikala proxy nominated as Tamil Nadu CM, OPS’ future may end into oblivion
Unless a miracle saves him or his supporters spill out on the streets, this looks like the end of O Panneerselvam — the courtier who wanted to be the king. On Thursday, Tamil Nadu Governor C Vidyasagar Rao ended the stalemate and power games in the state by inviting E Palaniswami to form the government. He has been given 15 days to prove his majority in the Assembly.
With the governor’s decision to invite Palanisamy — a proxy nominated by VK Sasikala’s camp after Chinnamma’s incarceration — to form the next government, the acting chief minister faces a dark future that may end into oblivion.
The governor’s decision ensures that either Panneerselvam goes out and breaks the AIADMK with the support of at least two-third legislators or loses his Assembly seat. His third option is, of course, to go back to the AIADMK and become its loyal servant again, provided the powers that control the party forgive and forget.
The law on elected legislators is clear: They can’t break away unless they new faction has the support of at least two-third of the elected members. So, in Panneerselvam’s case, he can trigger a rebellion only if he has at least 100 legislators. Given that he has just around a dozen MLAs in his camp, a split in the AIADMK looks unlikely.
Palaniswami will prefer a floor test ASAP
Keeping in mind the way things are unfolding in Tamil Nadu, the newly-appointed chief minister Edappadi Palaniswami will not waste another minute after being sworn-in. Leaders from OPS faction will meet the EC in New Delhi today and reports said that OPS will also file a motion of no-confidence.
In such a situation, EPS’ option is to inform the Speaker that he wants to prove his majority on the floor of the Assembly in the span of 24 hours. The decision will then rest solely with the Speaker, and hence the legislature. The 15-day grace period given by the governor was clearly meant for OPS, but EPS might not be in a mood to take a chance with that and especially with 124 MLAs in his pocket.
Why would he wait for OPS to poach them?
Edappadi Palaniswami as the new CM: OPS camp should be very afraid
Think back to just a few days ago when Sasikala was not behind bars. On her way to prison, she said DMK and OPS were colluding. She also took a vow to unleash revenge, she said she’ll remain in charge no matter what.
What does all that mean today when her proxy Palaniswami is set to take over as Chief Minister? For the OPS camp, it means — Be very afraid.
Already, the ugly side of AIADMK is there for all to see. Sasikala’s loyalists tearing up pictures of OPS, beating it with sticks and threatening to do the same to friends of the OPS camp. Knowing all the time that she had the numbers, she informed us that DMK and OPS exchanging smiles is a sign of collusion because she was supremely confident that in a bipolar Assembly with AIADMK and DMK the only two who matter, there’s no way for OPS to defeat her except for some truck with the DMK.
“With Dinakaran as advisor to the new chief minister Palaniswami, Tamil Nadu has hit a new low. We worry about OPS’ personal safety,” say locals. They’re still hoping there’ll be a twist in the tale 15 days later when Palaniswami has to prove majority.
A silver-lining for OPS?
It seems unlikely, but there’s still a window of hope for Panneerselvam.
OPS could still try to win it back, but it will be a tough one. OPS needs eight more MLAs to bring down Palaniswami’s newly-formed government (EPS has 124 MLAs, if OPS can coax 8 out of them to defect, the count goes down to 116, which is one less than the majority of 117). However, it is an uphill task for OPS as MLAs will not defect unless there is a sure chance of winning.
OPS can still bring the current government down by poaching MLAs, which leaves the governor with only one choice: Impose President’s Rule in Tamil Nadu and hold fresh elections in six months or a year. But this option is highly unlikely. It will require big political players to show their clout and convince the eight MLAs to leave the EPS camp — which will be in power for the next four years — and bring down the government just to go for fresh elections.
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