Ex-AIADMK MP Maitreyan Switches to DMK

Quick Summary

• Political Shift: Former AIADMK Rajya Sabha MP, V. Maitreyan, joined the DMK on August 13, 2025, in Chennai in the presence of Chief Minister M.K. Stalin.
• Expulsion: AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K.Palaniswami announced Mr. Maitreyan’s expulsion from the party following his crossover.
• Criticism of AIADMK-BJP Alliance: Mr. Maitreyan criticized the AIADMK’s alliance with BJP citing lack of clarity on policies like the two-language agenda and expressed dissatisfaction with alleged mismanagement within the party.
• Comment on Elections: He predicted a DMK victory in Tamil Nadu’s 2026 Assembly elections and suggested a contest only for second place among other parties.
• Political History: Starting his career with BJP (1996), he switched to AIADMK (1999). He held prominent positions including three stints as MP in Rajya Sabha, Special Representative of Tamil Nadu government (2004-2006), and sided with O. Panneerselvam after Jayalalithaa’s demise during internal party conflicts.
• Recent Trends: Other senior leaders such as A. Anwhar Raajhaa and V.R.Karthik Thondaiman have recently left AIADMK to join DMK.

Indian Opinion Analysis

V. Maitreyan’s shift to DMK underscores notable political realignments within Tamil Nadu ahead of critical state elections in 2026. His detailed critiques reflect growing tensions surrounding the AIADMK-BJP alliance and its potential disconnect from regional sentiments like linguistic cultural policies that often dominate state politics.

The exodus of experienced leaders like him raises broader questions about strategic uncertainty or fractures within opposition parties trying to challenge DMK’s dominance under Chief Minister Stalin-a point that could influence electoral outcomes by further consolidating support for ruling leadership or polarizing opposition alliances.

This trend also suggests discontent shifting deeper into grassroots cadres as high-profile defections continue, possibly signaling instability affecting political morale at organizational levels for major players beyond just individuals seeking relevance or opportunity elsewhere.

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