Sasikala plots comeback as Anna Dravidiar Kazhagam eyes selective TN poll battle

Chennai: Former AIADMK leader VK Sasikala is preparing a renewed political push ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, with plans to field candidates in select constituencies as she attempts to reassert her relevance in the state’s evolving electoral landscape. 

According to sources close to her camp, Sasikala’s supporters are likely to contest under the banner of the Anna Dravidiar Kazhagam, a party founded in 2018 by her brother VK Divakaran.

The strategy is expected to focus on pockets of influence in the southern districts and the Thevar belt, where she is believed to retain sections of loyal support.

The move marks a significant shift from her relatively low political profile in recent years following her conviction in the disproportionate assets case and subsequent expulsion from the AIADMK. Since then, she has repeatedly signalled her intention to return to active politics and revive the legacy of former chief minister J. Jayalalithaa.

Sources indicate that Sasikala has been holding consultations with former party functionaries and loyalists to assess grassroots support and determine the scale of her electoral intervention. As part of these preparations, she is expected to address a public meeting in Kallakurichi district to mobilise cadres and demonstrate organisational strength ahead of the polls.

An official announcement outlining her political roadmap is anticipated on February 24, coinciding with Jayalalithaa’s birth anniversary, widely regarded as a symbolic date by her followers.

Observers believe the timing is aimed at invoking the late leader’s legacy and reconnecting with cadres who still see Sasikala as part of that political lineage.

Her renewed activism comes amid continuing tensions within the AIADMK. Party general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami has repeatedly ruled out the possibility of Sasikala’s re-entry, maintaining that there is “no place” for her in the organisation ahead of the Assembly elections.

Separately, earlier political signals suggested she might back loyalists or independents in selected constituencies if mainstream alliances remained closed to her, highlighting her efforts to retain a foothold in electoral politics despite limited alliance prospects.

With the 2026 elections approaching, Sasikala’s decision to field candidates could test her residual influence and determine whether she can re-emerge as a meaningful political force or remain on the margins of Tamil Nadu’s competitive multi-party landscape.