Political Shift Brewing in Madurai: Alagiri Supporters Eye AIADMK Move

In a development that has once again stirred the political cauldron in Madurai, supporters of M.K. Alagiri, who were expelled from the DMK, have reportedly begun weighing a decisive shift amid prolonged uncertainty over their return to the party.

During Chief Minister and DMK president M.K. Stalin’s recent visit to Madurai, a representation was submitted seeking permission for Alagiri’s loyalists to resume party work. Months have passed since that appeal. With no positive signal forthcoming, sources indicate that some among them are now preparing for a dramatic move. The buzz in political circles: “Annanin vizhudugal” — the elder brother’s offshoots — may be preparing to cross over to the AIADMK.

In the days of former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, the political geography of the DMK was often described in clear spheres of influence — Murasoli Maran in Delhi, M.K. Stalin in Chennai, and M.K. Alagiri in Madurai. Alagiri, the elder son of Karunanidhi, served as the party’s south zone organising secretary and built a formidable base across the southern districts.

It was during the Thirumangalam by-election that the so-called “Thirumangalam formula” — credited with delivering a sweeping victory — came into prominence under Alagiri’s watch. Though born and raised in Chennai, he entrenched himself firmly in Madurai’s political landscape.

Across Dindigul, Theni, Madurai, Sivaganga and Ramanathapuram, Alagiri commanded a significant support base. However, as it became increasingly clear within the DMK that Stalin would be the political heir after Karunanidhi, many party functionaries shifted allegiance. A controversial opinion poll published in a daily triggered tremors within the party, and the developments that followed sent shockwaves through Tamil Nadu politics. Alagiri was eventually expelled from the DMK.

Several of his close associates — including Mannan, Isakki Muthu, Mubarak Mandhiri and Tirupparankundram Karthikeyan — were also removed from the party. After Karunanidhi’s demise, Alagiri demonstrated his continuing clout by organising a massive rally in Chennai.

Even after the DMK formed the government, he was not accommodated back into party affairs. At the same time, occasional meetings between the brothers were noted, and Udhayanidhi Stalin’s interactions with Alagiri during visits to Madurai became a subject of political interest.

Years after their expulsion, Alagiri’s supporters have maintained that they remain sympathisers of the DMK. During Stalin’s recent Madurai visit, Mannan submitted a letter reiterating their request to be readmitted and allowed to function within the party structure. Yet, there has been no green signal so far. It is said that a key emerging leader within the DMK is not inclined towards their re-entry.

Meanwhile, a fresh twist has added to the speculation. Tirupparankundram DMK former union secretary Karthikeyan, once considered a staunch Alagiri loyalist, recently joined Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam in the presence of actor Vijay. Reports that several of Alagiri’s supporters may follow suit into the fledgling outfit created a flutter.

However, the latest information suggests a potentially more consequential shift. In what could mark a dramatic turn in Madurai politics, Alagiri’s supporters are said to be exploring an understanding with the DMK’s principal rival, the AIADMK.

With no encouraging response from the DMK leadership and reluctance among some seniors to join what they view as a nascent formation, discussions are reportedly underway about a possible move to the AIADMK. It is learnt that bypassing local-level intermediaries in Madurai, certain professional contacts facilitated direct communication with the AIADMK leadership.

Assurances are said to have been conveyed that due importance and positions would be accorded if they join the party. While speculation is rife that an announcement may not be far away, clarity is awaited on who exactly will make the switch and when such an event might take place.

For now, Madurai waits — and watches — as another chapter in Tamil Nadu’s intricate intra-party politics appears to be unfolding.