Tamil Nadu minister Sengottaiyan says 15 more functionaries may quit AIADMK

Revenue and Disaster Management Minister KA Sengottaiyan distributing essential commodities to ration card holders in Gobichettipalayam on Tuesday | Photo credit: Special arrangement

Revenue and Disaster Management Minister KA Sengottaiyan said on Tuesday (October 13, 2026) that 15 more persons are likely to quit the AIADMK soon, adding that those planning to quit the party have held a meeting to discuss the issue on Monday (October 12).

“It is good that Edappadi K. Palaniswami expelled me from the AIADMK. Had I not left the party, I would still be sitting on the opposition benches. Look where I am now,” he said, referring to his position as revenue minister. “AIADMK has become the story of an elephant reduced to the size of an ant,” he said, referring to the party’s current political position. He reiterated his claim that 15 more persons would soon leave the AIADMK.

Referring to the by-election to the Dharapuram Assembly constituency, Mr. Sengottaiyan said it was not an ordinary constituency. He recalled that Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) leader C. Joseph Vijay had undertaken a post-election campaign tour and said he told Mr. Vijay then that his visit alone would be enough to ensure victory. “People want a well-organized and clean administration,” he said.

The minister had earlier inaugurated a fair price shop which was upgraded from a part-time outlet to a full-time establishment at Semmandampalayam near Gobichettipalayam.

Referring to warnings of possible flooding during the Northeast Monsoon in the context of a “super El Nino,” he said it was the government’s responsibility to address such issues. He praised Mr. Vijay and said that the leader treated everyone in a warm and brotherly manner. He added that he had not seen anyone like him after former Chief Ministers MG Ramachandran and J. Jayalalithaa.

Mr. Sengottaiyan urged officials to ensure that people receive their legitimate entitlements. He asked the public to submit applications online and said that if they do not receive a response within 15 days, the officials concerned will be questioned. Officials should provide a written response indicating whether the request can be granted. If the application was rejected, he should be informed about the matter immediately, he said.

Published – 13 Oct 2026 12:58 IST