T.T.V. Dhinakaran, General Secretary of Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK), has formally urged Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi to invite All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) to form the state government. This appeal, made in Chennai, follows a recent Supreme Court ruling that definitively confirmed EPS as the AIADMK's legitimate General Secretary, resolving a prolonged leadership dispute within the party.

Dhinakaran's statement also addressed the status of S. Karunas, the Mukkulathor Puli Padai MLA, who had been reported as unreachable. Karunas has since clarified his position, confirming his support for EPS and the AIADMK. His re-emergence and public declaration of allegiance contribute to the evolving political landscape in Tamil Nadu following the Supreme Court's verdict.

The Supreme Court's decision, delivered on May 9, 2024, upheld a Madras High Court division bench order that had earlier confirmed EPS's ascendancy to the top party post. This ruling dismissed appeals filed by former Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam (OPS) and his supporters, effectively bringing an end to the internal power struggle that has impacted the AIADMK since 2017.

Dhinakaran articulated concerns regarding what he perceived as a delay in the Governor's invitation to EPS, stating that such a delay could contribute to political instability within the state. He emphasized the constitutional obligation for the Governor to act swiftly in light of the Supreme Court's conclusive judgment on the AIADMK's leadership.

Regarding MLA S. Karunas:

  • Karunas, who represents the Tiruvadanai constituency, confirmed he was in his native village in Ramanathapuram district during the period he was reported as unreachable.
  • He publicly affirmed his unwavering support for the AIADMK under the leadership of Edappadi K. Palaniswami.
  • Karunas was originally elected on an AIADMK symbol in the 2016 assembly elections. He had previously aligned with the Dhinakaran faction following the party's split in 2017.
  • His clarification potentially solidifies the legislative strength aligned with EPS amidst ongoing political dynamics.

The Supreme Court's verdict has significant implications for the AIADMK, a major opposition party in Tamil Nadu. With the leadership issue now settled, EPS is positioned to consolidate his authority within the party structure. Dhinakaran's call for the Governor to act aligns with the sentiment that the judicial resolution should now pave the way for clear political governance. The Governor's office is expected to review the legal and constitutional implications of the Supreme Court's order and the political developments before determining its next course of action regarding government formation.