The election commission has finally decided to freeze the AIADMK’s symbol representing “two leaves” symbol as representatives from both VK Sasikala and O Panneerselvam’s camps made claims for it. Both groups will also be allotted with different, newer symbols, for them to choose for the by-polls which are just around the corner. Notably, the parties will be allowed a final opportunity of submitting documents and affidavits latest by 17 April 2017.
The conflict for the symbol began after the death of Jayalalitha, as both sides wanted to use the prestigious symbol in the upcoming bypoll, which is also an effect of Amma’s death. The fight was later taken to the Election Commission. The Commission heard the camps led by VK Sasikala and former Chief Minister O Panneerselvam.
Former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu O Panneerselvam was disappointed by the EC verdict. “We are disappointed by the EC verdict. We will continue to raise voice legally to get back our symbol,” he said.
During the conflict for the symbol, Panneerselvam camp claimed that since Sasikala is only the temporary general secretary, she cannot allot party symbol of ‘two leaves’ to any candidate contesting the RK Nagar assembly bypoll. Claiming that she has no right to allot symbol, the camps said that only the party’s presidium chairman E Madhusudhanan can allot the symbol.
In defense, Sasikala’s counsels said she enjoys the support of the majority of party delegates, MPs, and MLAs and hence has a right over the symbol. TTV Dinakaran, AIADMK Deputy General Secretary and nephew of Sasikala, is the candidate of the other camp.
