Rameswaram, July 20: Former Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam, during his visit to the Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameswaram, addressed the reasons behind AIADMK’s continuous electoral defeats. After offering prayers, Panneerselvam thanked voters in the area from an open jeep.In a statement to the press, he said, “I contested as an independent candidate in the Ramanathapuram constituency under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership and secured 33% of the total votes, which I consider a victory. I express my gratitude to the voters who supported me.”
Regarding the petition filed against MP Nawaz Khan’s victory, Panneerselvam stated that further details would be known through the court proceedings. He dismissed the need to respond to former Minister Udayakumar’s comments, emphasizing that AIADMK’s disunity has led to ten consecutive electoral defeats. “The people and party members know the reasons behind these losses. Despite my repeated requests to Palaniswami to address the issue, there has been no response,” he said.
Panneerselvam pointed out that Sasikala is also urging for AIADMK’s reunification and is meeting party members across the state. He added, “Former Chief Minister Jayalalithaa had legally resolved the Cauvery water issue. Chief Minister Stalin, part of the ‘INDIA’ alliance, should engage with the Karnataka Chief Minister to secure our rightful share of water. Legal proceedings might lead to further delays.”
He also raised concerns about the increase in drug sales near schools and colleges in Tamil Nadu, which has led to the youth becoming addicted. “Political murders and rowdyism have severely disrupted law and order in the state,” Panneerselvam concluded.