Merged with EPS faction on PM’s suggestion: OPS

Theni/Chennai, February 17

Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam, who last year merged his faction with that of Chief Minister E Palaniswami, has said that he had acted on a suggestion from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Speaking at a party office-bearers’ meeting yesterday, the AIADMK coordinator said the issue came up during a courtesy meeting he had with Modi in New Delhi last year. “He  said you (Panneerselvam) could join (merge the faction) to save the party,” the Deputy CM said. The merger took place in August 2016.

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Panneerselvam, who had become CM following the death of J Jayalalithaa in December 2016, said he told the PM he did not want any Cabinet position and can settle for a party post. But the PM wanted him to join the ministry, he added.

AIADMK leader D Jayakumar declined to comment, though he said the party would welcome anyone making suggestions for its well-being. The BJP state unit also declined to comment. — PTI