Chennai: KA Sengottaiyan, a nine-time AIADMK MLA from Erode district and former Tamil Nadu minister, officially joined the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) led by actor-politician Thalapathy Vijay on November 27. His supporters gathered in large numbers at the Panayur party headquarters, where TVK General Secretary N. Anand personally welcomed them.

Sengottaiyan resigned from his MLA post on November 26 after being expelled from AIADMK, a move he attributed to AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami’s dictatorial leadership. The expulsion followed allegations that Sengottaiyan had been in contact with individuals previously removed from the party, which AIADMK termed anti-party activity. Sengottaiyan had also threatened legal action, arguing that his removal violated party law and internal procedures.

Despite speculation that he might join the DMK, Sengottaiyan chose TVK instead. Political analysts suggest several reasons: he disagreed with AIADMK’s current leadership, feared limited influence if he joined DMK, and found TVK’s platform more aligned with his long-standing admiration for MGR and Jayalalithaa’s legacy. His decision also positions him as a senior figure in a party with a younger leadership, ensuring he retains significant authority and visibility.

Who is KA Sengottaiyan?

KA Sengottaiyan, a nine-time AIADMK MLA from Erode district and former Tamil Nadu minister, has been a prominent figure in Tamil Nadu politics since his first election in 1977. Born in Kullampalayam village near Gobichettipalayam, he played a key role in the AIADMK split after MGR’s death, supporting the Jayalalithaa faction and contesting successfully with the party’s ‘Rooster’ symbol. Over the decades, Sengottaiyan became widely known for organising campaign tours, strengthening AIADMK’s grassroots presence, and mentoring party workers in the Kongu region.

Why he chose TVK

Sengottaiyan officially joined the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) led by actor-politician Thalapathy Vijay on November 27, 2025. His supporters gathered in large numbers at the Panayur party headquarters, where TVK General Secretary N. Anand personally welcomed them. Analysts note that Sengottaiyan’s decision was influenced by the opportunity to retain seniority and influence within a younger leadership structure. The move also allows him to continue advocating the principles of MGR and Jayalalithaa, which he has long championed. Sengottaiyan’s entry is expected to strengthen TVK’s organisational structure and electoral appeal, particularly in the Kongu region where he has a strong support base.

Why not DMK

Despite speculation that Sengottaiyan might join the DMK, he chose to bypass the party. Political observers suggest that his decision was shaped by concerns over limited authority within DMK, the presence of established leaders in key positions, and his long-standing loyalty to AIADMK’s founding ideals. By joining TVK, he positions himself as a senior leader with significant visibility and decision-making power, unlike what he might have received in the DMK.

Context of his AIADMK exit

Sengottaiyan resigned from his MLA post on November 26, 2025, following his expulsion from AIADMK in October. The party accused him of maintaining contact with individuals previously removed from AIADMK, which it classified as anti-party activity. Sengottaiyan publicly criticised AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami’s leadership, calling it dictatorial and alleging violations of party law. He also indicated that he would consider legal action against the expulsion, arguing that internal procedures were not followed.

Political significance of the move

Sengottaiyan’s decision to join TVK provides an alternative platform for AIADMK members dissatisfied with current leadership yet unwilling to join DMK. It also gives TVK a senior, experienced figure capable of boosting organisational efficiency and voter appeal ahead of upcoming elections. Analysts say his involvement may particularly influence voter sentiment in regions such as Kongu, and provide credibility to a party largely composed of younger leaders.