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Sasikala to Unveil Political Future on Jayalalithaa's Birth Anniversary

V.K. Sasikala has indicated she will announce the next phase of her political journey while marking former Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa's birth anniversary. Her political path was dramatically altered after a 2017 conviction, which prevented her from becoming Chief Minister and led to her eventual expulsion from the AIADMK. Speculation is now rife on whether her announcement will involve a direct confrontation with the current AIADMK leadership or a signal of support for the BJP-led NDA ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections. This move is expected to significantly impact the opposition space in Tamil Nadu's evolving political landscape.

Key Points: Sasikala's New Political Move on Jayalalithaa Anniversary

  • Sasikala marks Jayalalithaa's birth anniversary
  • Plans major political announcement
  • Could challenge AIADMK or align with NDA
  • Follows prison release and expulsion from AIADMK
2 min read

On Jayalalithaa's birth anniversary, Sasikala set to unveil new political course in Pasumpon

V.K. Sasikala to announce her next political phase in Pasumpon, reshaping Tamil Nadu's opposition landscape ahead of 2026 elections.

On Jayalalithaa's birth anniversary, Sasikala set to unveil new political course in Pasumpon
"I would make an 'important announcement' in Pasumpon - V.K. Sasikala"

Chennai, Feb 24

Marking the birth anniversary of former Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa, V. K. Sasikala indicated that she would announce the next phase of her political journey, triggering fresh speculation in Tamil Nadu's political circles.

Sasikala, a close confidante of Jayalalithaa for over three decades, remained a powerful presence behind the scenes during the AIADMK supremo's rule.

Following Jayalalithaa's death in December 2016, Sasikala formally stepped into active politics and was appointed General Secretary of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK).

Soon after, she was elected leader of the AIADMK Legislature Party and was poised to take over as Chief Minister. However, dramatic political developments altered the course of events.

Then Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam rebelled against her leadership, launching what he described as a "dharma yuddham" (righteous battle).

Before Sasikala could assume office, she was convicted in a disproportionate assets case and sentenced to four years in prison.

Prior to surrendering, she named Edappadi K. Palaniswami as Chief Minister, reshaping the party's leadership structure.

By the time Sasikala was released from prison in 2021, Tamil Nadu's political landscape had undergone significant change.

She was subsequently sidelined and expelled from the AIADMK, and her repeated calls for party unity ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections failed to yield any positive response from the current leadership.

Over the past month, Sasikala has intensified consultations with her supporters, former AIADMK functionaries, and leaders from allied organisations.

At a recent memorial event for C.N. Annadurai, she made a dramatic declaration that she would re-enter the electoral fray.

Today, after paying floral tributes at the memorials of M.G. Ramachandran and Jayalalithaa, Sasikala said she would make an "important announcement" in Pasumpon.

Political observers note that launching and registering a new party - as her nephew T.T.V. Dhinakaran did - would be a complex and time-consuming task.

As a result, speculation is rife over whether Sasikala will adopt a confrontational stance against the AIADMK leadership or signal support for the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections. Her announcement is expected to have significant implications for the Opposition space in Tamil Nadu.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Amma's legacy should be respected. Sasikala was her closest companion for so long. If she feels she can carry forward Amma's vision for the state, she should be given a chance. The current AIADMK leadership seems disconnected.
V
Vikram M
The timing on Amma's birth anniversary is very calculated. But after the conviction and prison time, will the public trust her? It's a tough road ahead. She might just split the anti-DMK vote further, which helps no one.
S
Sarah B
As an observer, Tamil Nadu politics is fascinating. The personal loyalties and dramatic falls from grace are like a political thriller. If she aligns with the NDA, it could really change the game for BJP's southern ambitions.
K
Karthik V
Honestly, we need stability. This constant churning within the opposition only benefits the ruling party. Whether it's EPS, OPS, Sasikala, or Dhinakaran, they should unite if they want to offer a real alternative. 🙏
A
Anjali F
Her announcement in Pasumpon (Muthuramalinga Thevar's birthplace) is significant. She's trying to appeal to the Thevar community, which was a strong base for Amma. Smart move, but will it be enough? The political scene is very different now.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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