Backing EPS in 2017 was my biggest blunder, says OPS

Madurai: Launching a scathing attack on AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami, former chief minister O Panneerselvam expressed regret at his decision to back Palaniswami when a no-confidence motion was moved in 2017, and said that it was his biggest blunder in politics."EPS was in power for 4.5 years as chief minister. It was me who saved his (EPS) govt. If not for my support and the votes of my supporters, EPS could not last as chief minister in the no-confidence motion moved in the assembly. Since he (EPS) fell at my feet and asked for my support, I supported him," Panneerselvam said. Panneerselvam, who joined the DMK last week, campaigned for the second day at Vasudevanallur constituency in Tenkasi district and Mudukulathur, Paramakudi and Thiruvadanai constituencies in Ramanathapuram district on Saturday.He said the late AIADMK leader J Jayalalithaa entrusted him with the post of chief minister three times and, when the situation was right, he returned the position to her on a golden platter as a loyalist. However, Palaniswami was the best example of betrayal of trust. People ended his four-year dark rule in 2021. Palaniswami, who removed the loyalists who sacrificed for the party, should be driven out of politics altogether by the people.He said that during the past five years, the DMK govt under the leadership of chief minister M K Stalin functioned effectively as a true ‘Dravidian Model' govt. In the past, industrial development was focused only on Chennai and its surroundings. However, Stalin brought new industries to southern districts like Madurai, Tuticorin and Tirunelveli, ensuring employment opportunities for the youth. As a result, rural and individual economies improved significantly.Panneerselvam said the recent DMK conference held in Trichy showed the immense support people have for Stalin. The entire state of Tamil Nadu will bring a great victory for the DMK in the 2026 assembly election, and the verdict of the people will resonate in support of Stalin, he added.