Chennai: Clash between OPS and EPS factions ahead of general council meeting

A clash-like situation broke out between supporters of AIADMK leaders E Palaniswami and O Panneerselvam near party headquarters ahead of the General Council meeting on July 11.

AIADMK leaders E Palaniswami and O Panneerselvam have locked horns over the functioning of the party.

The dominant faction led by Edappady K Palaniswami may elect him as the single leader of the organisation in the General council meet today.

On his part, former Coordinator O Panneerselvam (OPS) arrived at the party office, along with supporters, while EPS was on his way to a marriage hall in the city where the General Council meet is slated.

However, the conduct of the meeting hinges on the outcome of a Madras High Court verdict which gave a nod for the council meeting to be held.

On Monday, two groups, suspected to be supporters of either leaders and carrying AIADMK flags clashed with each other, with TV visuals showing some persons hurling stones at each other and some damaging vehicles parked nearby. Some persons reportedly sustained injuries.

Meanwhile, some men were seen forcing their way into the party office by breaking open the doors. Security has been beefed up at the AIADMK office, MGR Maaligai, named after party founder, the late Chief Minister M G Ramachandran.

Later, Panneerselvam arrived at the party office, flanked by his supporters including R Vaithilingam and Manoj Pandian.

Panneerselvam greeted his supporters from a portico and also waved the party flag. There were "Ayya OPS vazhga" (hail OPS sir) slogans by his supporters.

Published on: Monday, July 11, 2022, 09:14 AM IST