Expelled AIADMK leader V. K. Sasikala has launched a new political party ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections and unveiled its flag carrying the image of former chief minister J. Jayalalithaa. The move signals her formal return to active politics and a direct challenge to the current AIADMK leadership.
Announcing the party, Sasikala said her aim is to bring back the governance model associated with Jayalalithaa, popularly known as “Amma”. She accused the present AIADMK leadership, led by Edappadi K. Palaniswami, of straying from the party’s original path and weakening its base. Her new outfit is expected to contest the upcoming Assembly polls and seek support from AIADMK’s traditional voters.
The party flag closely reflects symbols linked to Jayalalithaa, underlining Sasikala’s attempt to claim the late leader’s political legacy. She said the new party would focus on welfare schemes, grassroots organisation and restoring what she described as people-friendly rule in the state.
The AIADMK leadership has criticised the development, maintaining that Sasikala has no connection with the party after her expulsion. In response, her camp said there is nothing illegal about starting a new political party and asserted that she still enjoys support among cadre and long-time followers.
Her entry is expected to have a significant impact on the electoral battle in Tamil Nadu. Political observers believe the new party could divide the AIADMK’s vote share in several constituencies, which may alter the opposition space in a contest where the ruling DMK is seeking to retain power.
The announcement comes at a time when alliance talks and campaign preparations are gaining momentum in the state. With Sasikala now in the fray, the 2026 Tamil Nadu elections are likely to witness a more complex and multi-cornered contest.
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