Chennai, 24 February (H.S.) : Expelled All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam leader and former Chief Minister O Panneerselvam on Tuesday issued a bold challenge to his political rivals, stating he is ready to quit politics if any mistake on his part is proven.

Addressing reporters in Theni, he emphasized his long-standing dedication to the party, noting that he has worked tirelessly for its welfare for over 46 years while enduring numerous insults with patience. He questioned the grounds of his expulsion, asking what specific wrongdoing he had committed to warrant such treatment after serving as a legislator, Coordinator, and Chief Minister.

In a direct critique of the current party leadership, Panneerselvam slammed the recent amendments made to the party by-laws regarding the selection of the General Secretary. He argued that these rules were originally codified by the party founder, MG Ramachandran, to ensure a democratic process.

Who are you to change the rules established by the Revolutionary Leader? he questioned, adding that the matter is currently being contested in court. He expressed frustration over instructions from the current leadership forbidding him from using the party flag or wearing the party dhoti despite his decades of service.

The veteran leader maintained that he has never raised a hand against any party worker and has always prioritized the organization's integrity. He reiterated that if his detractors could simply point out a genuine mistake he made, he would voluntarily exit the political arena.

These statements come amid an ongoing power struggle within the AIADMK, as Panneerselvam continues to challenge the authority of General Secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami and seeks to reclaim his position within the party framework.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary