As Tamil Nadu’s ruling DMK continues to look formidable and closes in on the TVK, arch-rival AIADMK appears to be combating a band of ousted or exited leaders.

When ruled by AIADMK icon and former chief minister J Jayalalithaa, the AIADMK appeared like a single-minded entity with “military discipline". Strongmen would live perpetually in adoration of their leader and the fear of banishment—should someone so much as whisper about their disloyalty. That fear was largely due to the closedness of Jayalalithaa and the trusted coterie around her, helmed by VK Sasikala.

Nine years after her passing, the AIADMK appears diametrically opposed in character and conduct, receiving direct & veiled threats to its leadership and high-profile exits. Every time, Palaniswami has had to assert his title a

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