The sojourn of MLAs owing allegiance to sidelined AIADMK deputy general secretary T.T.V. Dhinakaran is likely to continue till Tamil Nadu Governor Ch. Vidyasagar Rao takes a decision on the representation made by 19 MLAs, withdrawing support to the Edappadi K. Palaniswami-led government and urging him to follow the due constitutional procedure.
In an exclusive interview with The Hindu , the AIADMK’s Karnataka state secretary and Dhinakaran loyalist V. Pugazhendi said that their only demand was the ouster of Mr. Palaniswami from the CM’s post.
He claimed that the pro-Dhinakaran MLAs risked facing threats if they returned to Tamil Nadu. “Hence, they will continue to stay in Puducherry till the Tamil Nadu Governor takes a decision," he said.
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On the fourth day of their stay in Puducherry on Friday, the MLAs were moved from Windflower Resort and Spa in Chinna Veerampattinam to The Sunway Manor Hotel on 100 Ft. Road.
Labelling the present AIADMK government the most corrupt regime, Mr. Pugazhendi said, "There is no need to guess why the CM is holding three coveted portfolios of Home, PWD and Highways. He does not want to give any chance to others.” Contending that the Speaker had no power to disqualify the MLAs, he said, “That power rests with the Governor and the President."