Chennai, Apr 9:
Actor-turned-politician Meesai Rajendran has joined the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam after quitting the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam, in a move that has drawn attention ahead of the Assembly elections.
Rajendran, who had been serving as a spokesperson of the DMDK, announced his resignation from the party citing dissatisfaction with the internal functioning and lack of recognition for his long-standing loyalty. He had been associated with the party for over two decades and was considered a close loyalist of late actor-politician Vijayakanth.
Soon after stepping down, he met AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami and formally joined the party in his presence.
Sources indicate that denial of an election ticket in the upcoming Assembly polls may have been a key reason behind his exit from the DMDK. Despite contesting multiple elections in the past on the partyās behalf, Rajendran was reportedly not given an opportunity this time, leading to discontent.
His sudden shift, especially at a time when DMDK is aligned with the DMK-led front, has created ripples in political circles. Observers say such last-minute defections could impact local-level dynamics as parties gear up for a high-stakes electoral battle.