Chennai, May 30 (IANS) Tamil Nadu Revenue and Disaster Management Minister K.A. Sengottaiyan on Saturday dismissed allegations that the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) was engaging in horse-trading to attract leaders from rival parties, asserting that the party’s growing support was the result of its political strength and public mandate.

Speaking to reporters in Perundurai after former AIADMK MLA S. Jayakumar formally joined the TVK, Sengottaiyan stressed that his party had no need to resort to inducements or political bargaining to expand its base.

“Jayakumar and several others who have joined the TVK resigned from their positions before entering our party. The TVK does not require horse-trading. We have won the confidence of the people and secured power on our own strength,” he said.

The Minister’s remarks came amid criticism from opposition parties, particularly the AIADMK, which has accused the ruling party of attempting to lure leaders and functionaries from rival political organisations.

Rejecting the allegations, Sengottaiyan said the government would provide a comprehensive response when the issue is raised in the Tamil Nadu Assembly.

“If the Opposition wants to discuss horse-trading, we are prepared to answer those allegations on the floor of the House,” he said.

Sengottaiyan also alleged that internal discontent within the AIADMK was driving several cadres and leaders towards the TVK. According to him, many party workers were unhappy with recent political developments, including remarks by some AIADMK leaders favouring a possible alliance with the DMK.

“There is widespread dissatisfaction among sections of the AIADMK. Many workers and local leaders disagree with the present political direction of the party and are therefore choosing to join the TVK,” he claimed.

Responding to demands from opposition parties for an all-party meeting on Karnataka’s proposed Mekedatu dam project, Sengottaiyan noted that the TVK government had assumed office only recently but had already taken steps to protect Tamil Nadu’s interests.

He said that Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay had submitted representations to the Union Government on crucial issues, including the Mekedatu project and the welfare of Tamil Nadu fishermen.

The Minister also criticised opposition parties for attacking the government soon after it assumed office, despite previously urging that the new administration be given time to function.

Earlier, Jayakumar, accompanied by his supporters and senior TVK leaders, paid floral tributes to former Chief Minister C.N. Annadurai at Perundurai before formally joining the ruling party, marking another significant political addition to the TVK.

–IANS

aal/vd