Chennai, July 1:
Tamil Nadu Energy and Law Minister C.T.R. Nirmal Kumar on Tuesday alleged that the DMK and AIADMK are attempting to join hands to form a government with the support of certain industrialists.
Addressing reporters at the Secretariat in Chennai, the minister claimed that efforts to bring together the two major Dravidian parties are ongoing even at this moment. He further stated that similar claims had been made earlier, with references to statements by political leaders, including those from the Indian Union Muslim League, suggesting that such a move had the backing of the BJP.
Nirmal Kumar alleged that the recent political developments, including MLAs resigning and leaders exiting alliances, were triggered by attempts to forge a DMK–AIADMK coalition. He questioned how parties that had strongly criticized each other in the past could now consider joining forces.
He further accused leaders including M.K. Stalin, Udhayanidhi Stalin, and Edappadi K. Palaniswami of trying to form a government through indirect means with the support of select industrialists. According to him, these efforts are aimed at safeguarding their personal and family assets.
The minister also clarified that his recent meeting with the Governor was purely official and courtesy-based. He added that files seeking approval to register cases against former ministers have been sent to the Governor, and approval is awaited.
Reiterating his allegations, Nirmal Kumar said that attempts to form a government through unconventional means are still ongoing. He claimed that leaders at the district level are choosing to leave and connect directly with the people, which is why many are joining the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam.
He also made a prediction that within two years, both Stalin and Edappadi Palaniswami would extend support to the BJP and secure ministerial positions at the Centre.
Speaking about Vaiko, Nirmal Kumar said that the veteran leader has never aspired for positions and has remained selfless. He added that the current political shifts are a result of dissatisfaction with the functioning of Stalin, which has led to leaders distancing themselves from him.