Deputy Leader of Opposition RB Udhayakumar commented on ousted leader VK Sasikala’s recent tour in southern Tamil Nadu aimed at uniting the AIADMK, asserting that the party would never accept her back. Speaking to reporters in Madurai on Thursday, Udhayakumar emphasized that the AIADMK does not want to be deceived by Sasikala again.
Udhayakumar, a former close aide to the late chief minister J Jayalalithaa, criticized Sasikala for failing to contribute to the welfare of the poor in Tamil Nadu despite her power and authority. He questioned whether she had done anything significant for the people, leaving it to her conscience to answer. He likened Sasikala to dried fish that could never be considered fresh in water, suggesting that she could never be accepted back into the AIADMK fold.
Highlighting her 33-year association with Jayalalithaa’s administration, Udhayakumar argued that Sasikala had done little to help those living below the poverty line, particularly within her own caste. He accused her of capitalizing on strong community support for personal progress while neglecting the needs of the people, not even offering them basic aid.
Udhayakumar contended that if Sasikala had genuinely been concerned about the welfare of the people and had delivered on her promises, the entire state of Tamil Nadu would support her. He pointed out that even Jayalalithaa had struggled to expel Sasikala from the party, recognizing the potential damage she could cause.
Dismissing the notion that AIADMK could achieve victory with Sasikala’s involvement, Udhayakumar asserted that it is ultimately the people who will decide whom to trust. He expressed confidence that Edappadi K Palaniswami, the AIADMK general secretary, would once again lead the state in 2026.
Udhayakumar reminded that Sasikala had announced her decision to quit politics in 2021, yet she has now re-entered the political arena, attempting to create confusion among the public. He u