AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami delivered a powerful speech asserting that any attempts to weaken or destroy the party would fail. He was speaking at the centenary celebrations of the late Janaki Ammal, Tamil Nadu’s first woman Chief Minister and the wife of AIADMK founder M.G. Ramachandran (MGR). The event took place at Sri Varu Venkatachalapathy Palace in Vanagaram, Chennai.In his address, Palaniswami reminisced about MGR’s enduring legacy, highlighting the milestones achieved during AIADMK’s rule. He noted that the centenary celebrations for MGR had been conducted across all 32 districts of Tamil Nadu during AIADMK’s tenure, with 562 development initiatives announced, of which 90% have been successfully implemented, benefiting millions.
“Conducting Janaki Ammal’s centenary celebrations as AIADMK’s General Secretary is a privilege and honor for me,” he said.
Palaniswami emphasized Janaki Ammal’s unwavering support to MGR during challenging times. He recounted how she stood by him during his recovery from a gunshot wound inflicted by actor M.R. Radha and provided dedicated care.
He also recalled MGR’s resilience in the face of opposition during the DMK regime, particularly an incident in the Tamil Nadu Assembly where MGR was heckled and attacked with objects. Despite such humiliation, MGR vowed to return as Chief Minister, a promise he fulfilled with the people’s overwhelming support.
Following MGR’s passing, AIADMK faced a crisis and a split. Palaniswami praised Janaki Ammal and Jayalalithaa for their efforts in reuniting the party, which led to subsequent electoral victories. “Whenever AIADMK has faced challenges, it has always emerged stronger,” he said.
Drawing a comparison with DMK, Palaniswami said, “While DMK is a family-run party where only members of the Karunanidhi family can lead, AIADMK is a party of dedicated workers. Anyone who works hard and remains loyal can rise to positions of leadership, be it MLA, Minister, General Secretary, or even Chief Minister.”
He asserted that AIADMK’s strength lies in its loyal cadre and administrators, a quality unmatched by any other party.
Addressing speculations about AIADMK’s electoral prospects, Palaniswami dismissed concerns, citing DMK’s 10 years of consecutive defeats before returning to power. He expressed confidence in AIADMK’s resurgence, stating, “Change in government is a natural part of political dynamics. AIADMK is destined for victory.”
Highlighting AIADMK’s governance, Palaniswami pointed out that the party has ruled Tamil Nadu for 31 years, making the state a leader in development initiatives. He urged party members to continue the work of MGR and Jayalalithaa, utilizing the remaining 15 months before the assembly elections as an opportunity to strengthen AIADMK’s position.
Palaniswami concluded his speech with a strong declaration: “No matter how many obstacles we face, AIADMK will always overcome and emerge victorious.” His remarks received a rousing response from the attendees, who vowed to uphold the legacy of MGR and Jayalalithaa.