AIADMK factions spar over demands

A stalemate over the merger of the two AIADMK factions continued as the groups issued contradictory statements as to why the talks have not started.

Though the O Panneerselvam-led faction welcomed the removal of jailed general secretary V K Sasikala’s banners from the party headquarters on Wednesday, a key demand for the talks, both factions gave no indication of going ahead with the merger negotiations.

“They (Edappadi group) did not openly accept our demands and invite us for the talks. Instead, they said that every thing could be sorted out during the discussion, and this is not acceptable to us,” said K Pandiarajan, former minister and OPS camp leader.