Amma Makkal Munnettra Kazagam (AMMK) chief TTV Dhinakaran on Wednesday said old differences should not be allowed to come in the way of the party’s larger interests, as the outfit prepares to rejoin the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) ahead of the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections due this year.
Addressing a press conference in Chennai, Dhinakaran stressed the need to put internal disputes aside for the welfare of the state.
“With the larger objective in mind, we should not allow old issues to overshadow the party’s interests, the welfare of Tamil Nadu, or push them aside. Making compromises for the common good does not weaken us,” he said.
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Emphasising unity among cadres, he added, “Likewise, as Amma’s cadres, who serve as a unifying force, we will come together as one and stand firmly to ensure that Amma’s rule returns to Tamil Nadu, that people’s governance is restored, and that good governance prevails. That is our clear stand.”
Dhinakaran’s party had contested the 2024 Lok Sabha elections as part of the NDA, alongside the BJP, AIADMK and other allies. However, he walked out of the alliance in September last year, citing differences with AIADMK leadership, particularly his opposition to Edappadi K Palaniswami.
After exiting the NDA, Dhinakaran as per media reports explored a possible alliance with actor Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), but the talks failed to materialise. More recently, he met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi, where the senior BJP leader is understood to have invited him to return to the NDA fold.
PM Modi to Visit on January 23
Political activity in the state is set to intensify further, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled to address a public meeting at Maduranthakam in Chengalpattu district on January 23. The event will serve as the NDA’s formal campaign kickoff for the Assembly polls.
The meeting will be attended by AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami, GK Vasan, John Pandian, and other alliance leaders.
Tamil Nadu is headed for Assembly elections in the first half of 2026. The NDA, led by the AIADMK and BJP, will take on the ruling DMK-Congress alliance, while actor-turned-politician Vijay’s TVK is expected to add a new dimension, setting up a triangular contest.
(With Inputs from Agencies)
