AIADMK Exodus Deepens As Four Former Ministers Join Vijay’s TVK
Tamil Nadu politics witnessed another major shift on Thursday as four former AIADMK ministers joined Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, marking a fresh setback for the opposition party amid continuing internal churn.
Former ministers C Vijayabaskar, M R Vijayabhaskar, MSM Anandan, and S Valarmathi joined TVK along with several former MLAs, district-level functionaries, and party cadres at an event held in Mamallapuram.
Big Boost For TVK
The new entrants were welcomed by TVK general secretary N Anand and other senior leaders, including K. A. Sengottaiyan. The defections are being seen as one of the biggest political crossovers from AIADMK to TVK after the 2026 Assembly elections.
C Vijayabaskar and M R Vijayabhaskar, who had earlier resigned from their Assembly memberships, praised Vijay’s leadership and said their move was aimed at continuing public service under a new political platform.
Sengottaiyan Targets AIADMK Leadership
K. A. Sengottaiyan, who was earlier associated with the AIADMK, criticised the present leadership and alleged that the party had moved away from its workers. He claimed that the AIADMK was no longer functioning like a people-driven political organisation and had instead become like a “corporate company.”
His remarks added to the political heat as TVK continues to attract leaders who were once closely linked to the AIADMK’s district-level organisational strength.
DMK Takes ‘Washing Machine’ Jab
The DMK reacted sharply to the latest defections. DMK deputy general secretary Kanimozhi took a swipe on X, comparing the development to the “washing machine” politics often alleged against the BJP in northern India.
Her comment was widely viewed as a reference to former health minister C Vijayabaskar, who has faced allegations in the gutkha scam case. The remark has triggered a fresh political debate over whether parties are using defections to strengthen themselves while ignoring allegations against incoming leaders.
AIADMK Faces Growing Pressure
The latest round of exits has increased pressure on the AIADMK leadership, which is already facing questions over internal unity and political direction after its electoral setback.
With experienced leaders, former ministers, and cadres moving to TVK, the development signals a changing political equation in Tamil Nadu. It also gives Vijay’s party a stronger organisational base ahead of future local body and parliamentary contests.
For AIADMK, the challenge now is not only to stop further defections but also to rebuild confidence among its cadre. For TVK, the inductions may help expand its reach, but the party is also likely to face closer scrutiny over the background of leaders it welcomes.
