Former AIADMK Minister and Deputy Leader of the Opposition O.S. Manian on Saturday said action under the anti-defection law would “certainly” be initiated against 25 AIADMK MLAs who, he alleged, acted in support of the TVK despite the party Whip.

After touring parts of the Vedaranyam Assembly constituency to thank voters following his electoral victory, Mr. Manian told reporters that the Supreme Court, in its 2023 verdict in the Shiv Sena case, had made it clear that the power to appoint the Whip for a legislature party rested with the party’s general secretary, which in the AIADMK’s case is Edappadi K. Palaniswami. Mr. Manian alleged that despite directions issued by the Whip, 25 AIADMK MLAs acted in favour of the TVK, and therefore, proceedings under the anti-defection provisions would continue against them.

“The Chief Minister himself meeting the 25 AIADMK MLAs separately stands as evidence of their defiance of party discipline and the Whip,” he alleged.

On leaders from various political parties supporting the ruling party after the change in political climate, Mr. Manian said such developments were common following elections. He further alleged that some individuals were moving towards the ruling party out of “self-interest”, seeking positions, contracts, and other benefits.