O. Panneerselvam joins DMK; says ‘happy to be part of Thai Kazhagam’
O. Panneerselvam, three-time former Chief Minister and a staunch loyalist of Jayalalithaa, joined the DMK on Friday, February 27, 2026, in the presence of party president and Chief Minister M.K Stalin. He expressed his happiness at joining the "Thaai Kazhagam" and praised Stalin for leading with growth and efficiency. He also criticized Palaniswami, the current AIADMK general secretary, as an autocratic leader who has hindered the AIADMK's success. This move comes after a series of defections from the AIADMK, including former MLA K.A. Sengottaiyan who joined actor Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).
27 FEB 2026
— The Hindu
The BJP condemned the DMK's decision to induct O. Panneerselvam, accusing the party of fear and desperation and highlighting a contrast between Stalin's past and present stance.
— The Hindu
OPS, formerly known as "Mr. Loyal," has navigated a complex political landscape, shifting allegiances between the AIADMK, BJP, and DMK.
— The Hindu
Former AIADMK coordinator O. Panneerselvam joined the DMK after a period of political isolation and internal conflict within the AIADMK.
To respect publishing rights, SatyaDheesh does not host full copyrighted news copy. You can read the complete article on the publisher's platform: