“I came to know that the State executive council meet was held at Rajapalayam on Sunday but I was not invited for it,” said Shekher.

He said that he had wished Tamilisai when she was appointed as the State president and was invited for prior party meetings but was ignored this time around. “I cannot keep on standing at the doors of Tamilisai and call her ‘akka’. As she is younger to me, I can at best call her ‘thangachi’ (meaning younger sister),” said Shekher. Tamilisai is referred to as ‘akka’ by her supporters.

He also hinted that he is ready to take over the leadership at the State level. “If the State leadership is given to me, I will make the BJP garner more percentage of votes compared to the previous elections,” said Shekher.

When asked if he is being side-lined, he replied that he was not utilised by the State leadership. “Those who utilise me well can grow well,” he said.

The comments of Shekher did not go well with the party leadership. Tamilisai said that works are being under taken to strengthen the party at the booth level. “Under my leadership, the party is growing. I will not die without the BJP coming to power in TN,” she said, asserting her position.