EPS slams BJP for ‘attempts to split AIADMK, promote instant leaders’
Chennai: The AIADMK lashed out at its former ally, the BJP, accusing them of persistently attempting to sow discord within the Dravidian party. “The BJP is endorsing certain inexperienced ‘instant leaders’ who are ignorant of the dedication and hard work of our cadre, aiming to incite the AIADMK,” stated party general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami on Monday, following remarks from BJP state chief K Annamalai predicting the demise of the EPS-led AIADMK by June 4.
In a communiqué to party members, without directly naming Annamalai, EPS asserted, “We won’t initiate conflict, but we won’t retreat from one forced upon us. AIADMK cadre must impart a fitting lesson to those who provoke us. Let that party (BJP) and its ‘handpicked leaders’ grasp the might and resilience of our cadre. May they comprehend the essence of the Tamil proverb ‘saadhu mirandaal kaadu kolladhu’ (the fury of a virtuous man is most formidable).”
In his most vehement critique of the BJP yet, seven months post-severance of ties, EPS proclaimed, “Despite being a national entity, the BJP’s primary electoral tactic has been to propagate falsehoods against the AIADMK.” “The AIADMK has eradicated all internal discord and now stands prepared for a fruitful future. We have emerged stronger and more united after thwarting such endeavors,” asserted the former CM.
Palaniswami recalled the AIADMK’s resilience since its inception in 1972, enduring numerous onslaughts. “We have weathered violence and malicious schemes directed at us from the north, as well as the despicable machinations of the ruling party. The AIADMK has triumphed over such acts of cowardice,” he affirmed.
The AIADMK leader criticized the opinions imposed under the guise of opinion polls by the central and state ruling parties, deeming them detached from reality. “Our political adversaries may fantasize that these polls will exhaust us. However, we are well aware of the favorable electoral landscape awaiting us,” he added.
While campaigning for AIADMK candidates and allied parties in various constituencies, EPS once again targeted Annamalai. Addressing a gathering in Purasawalkam, he remarked, “He (Annamalai) has scarcely led the state unit of the party for five years. Like a novice, he predicts the demise of AIADMK post-2024 elections. Younger brother! We have encountered many like you.”
Palaniswami accused Annamalai of speaking out of frustration. “Younger brother, say what you must. I have reiterated that the AIADMK is distinct. With 2.06 crore members, the AIADMK is not a party like yours with meager cadre strength. We have severed ties with your party after witnessing your actions. Do not underestimate us. Those who seek to defeat the AIADMK will be vanquished. That is our legacy,” he asserted.
Furthermore, the AIADMK leader emphasized that any grassroots cadre could rise to the party’s apex. “It is not akin to your party, which appoints leaders from New Delhi. You are an appointee, and let us see if you will remain here post-June 4,” EPS concluded.
