Jaya's niece plunges into politics

Former Tamil Nadu chief minister J Jayalalithaa’s niece Deepa Jayakumar on Tuesday announced that she was entering politics to follow in the footsteps of her aunt and serve the people of the state.

“After her (Jayalalithaa) demise, several changes have occurred in the state political scene. With the blessings of (Amma), I am going to start my public life,” Deepa said, paying floral tributes at the memorial of AIADMK founder M G Ramachandran on his birth centenary.

Stating that her decision to enter politics came after careful consideration, Deepa said “from today I am going to undertake a new journey”. However, she said she would announce her political plans about joining the AIADMK or floating a new party on her aunt’s birthday, which falls on February 24.

“There is no better day than her (Jayalalithaa) birthday to announce my plans,” she said. Deepa also said she will be touring Tamil Nadu to interact with the party cadres and public.
Dropping hints that she might float a new political outfit, she said she cannot accept anyone other than MGR and Jayalalithaa as her leader.

Deepa also ruled out seeking support of other parties, including the BJP, for her political journey. “Till now, I have not discussed my plans with anyone.” Deepa shot into media fame after she was denied permission to see Jayalalithaa in hospital. Deepa is the daughter of Jayalalithaa’s only brother, the late Jayakumar.