TVK local functionaries quit, join DMK alleging neglect and lack of recognition

Chennai, July 26 (IANS) In a setback to the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) at the grassroots level, more than 25 local functionaries from Chennai joined the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) on Sunday, alleging that they had been sidelined within the party despite years of organisational work and commitment. 

The induction ceremony was held at Saidapet in the presence of senior DMK leader and former Minister Ma. Subramanian, who formally welcomed the new members into the party. 

The entrants said they hoped to continue their political work under the DMK after becoming disillusioned with their experience in the TVK. 

The group was led by Santhosh, the former Joint Secretary of TVK's Ward-186 unit in Puzhuthivakkam. 

Other prominent local office-bearers who switched allegiance included Ward Youth Wing Organiser Sivanesan, Area Treasurer Karthik and several grassroots functionaries from the same ward.

Addressing reporters after joining the DMK, Santhosh said nearly 30 members from Ward-186 had resigned from the TVK together before enrolling in the DMK. 

He added that the decision was taken collectively after repeated dissatisfaction over the manner in which long-serving workers were treated. 

According to him, party workers who had contributed to building the organisation from its early stages were consistently overlooked for responsibilities, while recent entrants were allegedly given greater prominence. 

He said senior cadre had repeatedly raised concerns within the party, but their grievances were neither acknowledged nor acted upon. 

Santhosh also alleged that there was little respect for experienced grassroots workers despite their sustained efforts over the years. 

The absence of meaningful organisational roles and what he described as a lack of internal recognition eventually convinced many of them that they could no longer continue in the party.

Explaining his decision to join the DMK, Santhosh said he had always admired the party's organisational structure and political functioning. 

Although he had initially joined the TVK because of actor-turned-Chief Minister Vijay, he claimed that the expectations of dedicated workers had not been met. 

He said the DMK had demonstrated its organisational strength even while functioning in the Opposition and expressed confidence that the new entrants would be able to work more effectively for public welfare under its banner. 

The defections come amid continuing political competition between the ruling TVK and the Opposition DMK to strengthen their grassroots presence across Tamil Nadu.

--IANS

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