AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) strongly criticised expelled
leader K. A. Sengottaiyan, calling him “selfish” and a “betrayer.” EPS said Sengottaiyan
had worked against the party that “gave him his identity and helped him grow in politics.”
The remarks came during a huge show-of-strength rally in Gobichettipalayam, which is
Sengottaiyan’s own hometown and political stronghold. Speaking to the large crowd, the
former Chief Minister explained that the party had good reasons for removing Sengottaiyan
from the AIADMK. He said the nine-time MLA had repeatedly gone against the party’s decisions
and unity.
EPS also said he was confident that the AIADMK would win the Gobichettipalayam seat again
in the upcoming elections, despite Sengottaiyan’s exit. He added that the party remains
strong and united and that supporters in the area would continue to back the AIADMK.