The AIADMK continues to experience turmoil, with M R Vijayabaskar becoming the latest member to resign from the party. His departure adds to the growing list of dissatisfaction among AIADMK legislators under the leadership of Edappadi K. Palaniswami. Allegedly discontent with the current leadership, Vijayabaskar is reportedly set to join the ruling Tamil Nadu Vanniyar Katchi (TVK).

Vijayabaskar’s resignation marks the sixth MLA to either resign or defect from the AIADMK since the 2026 Assembly elections. His exit follows closely on the heels of former Tamil Nadu Health Minister C Vijayabaskar, who also resigned recently, signalling that the party is facing significant internal strife.

In a formal gesture, C Vijayabaskar submitted his resignation to Assembly Speaker JCD Prabhakar at the Secretariat, a move that has been accepted. Throughout this period, he has also shown indications of joining the TVK, contributing to the already diminishing strength of the AIADMK in the Assembly.

Accusations of Poaching and Internal Struggles

The AIADMK has criticised the ruling TVK for allegedly luring its members away, claiming that this is part of an effort to weaken their position. In response, the TVK has dismissed these allegations, stating that the resignations are voluntary and stem from dissatisfaction with Palaniswami’s leadership style.

Among the resignations noted earlier, four lawmakers departed the Assembly to join the ruling party. This trend has created significant pressure on AIADMK’s leadership, indicating a troubling phase for the opposition party founded by MG Ramachandran.

C Vijayabaskar has had a notable political career since entering the Assembly in 2001 and has successfully retained his position in the Viralimalai constituency through multiple elections, including the recent 2026 elections. His capabilities were highlighted during his tenure as the Health Minister, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic response.

Efforts to Reinstate Party Unity

Despite the turmoil, there have been recent initiatives by Palaniswami to restore harmony within the party. In a bid to strengthen alliances, former ministers SP Velumani, Natham R Viswanathan, and P Thangamani were reinstated to significant organisational roles, reaffirming their commitment to AIADMK’s leadership.

Efforts towards reconciliation have taken notable steps, including a decision by the AIADMK to withdraw disciplinary and disqualification proceedings against the rebelling faction, indicating a potential thaw in relations. The return of Velumani and Viswanathan as deputy general secretaries alongside Thangamani’s role as organising secretary represents a strategic reorganisation intended to fortify the party’s structure.

However, the recent resignation of M R Vijayabaskar, coupled with ongoing defections, poses challenges to these reconciliation efforts, suggesting persistent issues within the AIADMK. As members continue to voice their dissatisfaction, the leadership will need to prioritise addressing these concerns to stabilise the party’s standing.

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