Tamil Nadu Politics: Former AIADMK Minister Vaithilingam Defects to DMK Amid Growing Party Rifts

Image Source: Internet

In a significant development in Tamil Nadu politics, former AIADMK Minister R Vaithilingam has joined the ruling DMK, citing the party's effectiveness in serving the people. Vaithilingam, a two-time MLA from Orathanad constituency, met DMK President M K Stalin at the party headquarters, Anna Arivalayam, and formally joined the party. Vaithilingam, a close ally of ousted AIADMK leader O Panneerselvam, presented a floral bouquet and a shawl to Stalin, accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin and senior DMK leaders. In a veiled attack on the AIADMK leadership, Vaithilingam stated that the party was not functioning effectively under Edappadi K Palaniswami's leadership. Vaithilingam's decision to join the DMK comes after a brief interaction with the media, where he emphasized the importance of the DMK's roots in the Dravida Iyakkam movement. He also cited the AIADMK's authoritarian nature and lack of independence as reasons for his switch. Vaithilingam's move is seen as a significant blow to the AIADMK, which has been plagued by internal rifts in recent times. This development follows the defection of AIADMK rebel Manoj Pandian to the DMK in November 2025. Vaithilingam's induction into the DMK is expected to further consolidate the party's position ahead of the upcoming elections in Tamil Nadu.