Sasikala's brother Dhivakaran renames Amma Ani outfit to espouse Bhakthi cult

TIRUVARUR: V Dhivakaran, estranged brother of deposed AIADMK leader V K Sasikala, on Sunday renamed his political outfit Amma Ani as Anna Dravidar Kazhagam. He also announced himself as general secretary of the outfit and appointed his son Jeyanandh as Student-Youth wing organiser.

Addressing media, he said the Anna Dravidar Kazhagam stood for Dravidian leaders Periyar, Anna, MGR and J Jayalalithaa. Having criticised his nephew and founder of Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhakam TTV Dhinakaran for not having Dravida/Dravidam in the party’s name, Dhivakaran added Dravidar to his outfit.

When media persons asked him whether Dravidar would keep out any particular caste, Dhivakaran claimed that the very essence of Dravidian movement was against caste discrimination. Further, Dhivakaran said the Anna Dravidar Kazhagam would promote Bhakthi cult as well as religious harmony.  The flag of the outfit bears red and black stripes, with a green star in the centre.

Though Sasikala’s family is collectively referred to as Mannargudi family, Dhivakaran is the only family member who actually resides in the town. But that has not helped him mobilize huge, as only a few hundreds of cadre were seen at the launch. AMMK cadre were seen in large numbers at private functions attended by Dhinakaran on the same day, leaving observers wondering whether the former would be a serious player in the political space. ADK spokesperson VK Ilanthamizan however played this down and said “AMMK cadre have already started contacting us. Dhinakaran is not capable of running the party. Dhivakaran does not have  cases against him, and can speak out boldly.”

The main reason for Dhivakaran’s spat with Dhinakaran was said to be his demand for the post of AMMK  youth wing secretary to his son Jay Anandh.  Though Dhivakaran denied it then, he has appointed his son as youth wing secretary of the new outfit.  Ilanthamizan said Jai Anand has all the qualities to hold that post and would draw youth to the party.

A Dhinakaran supporter said “Although Dhivakaran lives in Mannargudi, he has no significant influence not just in the constituency but also in the whole district. Remember, DMK’s TRB Rajaa is the MLA from Mannargudi.”

Heavy Flag

Adding to poor crowd, the flag hoisting event caused a few embarrassing moments as the flag did not unfurl, the reason being it heavy with flower petals. He brought the flag down, reduced the amount of flowers before hoisting it again