Amidst escalating turmoil within the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), senior leader K.A. Sengottaiyan, the MLA from Gobichettipalayam, has embarked on a pilgrimage to Haridwar. This move follows his recent removal from party posts after advocating for the re-induction of expelled leaders to foster unity within the AIADMK. Sengottaiyan's public call for unity and criticism of the party's current trajectory have seemingly led to increased internal conflict.

Sengottaiyan's departure for Haridwar occurred on Monday, with the leader boarding a flight to Delhi from Coimbatore. Sengottaiyan clarified that the purpose of his trip was to worship at a Ram temple and seek peace of mind. He explicitly denied rumors of meeting with BJP leaders, including Amit Shah. He stated he would return on Tuesday.

The AIADMK has been grappling with internal strife for some time, particularly since the death of J. Jayalalithaa. The party has seen a power struggle between various factions, with Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) currently serving as the General Secretary. In the past, the party was led under the dual leadership of O. Panneerselvam and Edappadi K. Palaniswami. Recent events, including Sengottaiyan's removal and pronouncements from V.K. Sasikala, highlight the deep divisions and ongoing power struggles within the AIADMK.

Sengottaiyan had set a 10-day deadline for EPS to initiate the process of bringing back expelled leaders, including O. Panneerselvam and T.T.V. Dhinakaran. He argued that a united AIADMK was crucial for success in the upcoming 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. He also warned that continuing factionalism would harm the party's electoral prospects. Sengottaiyan has stated that the expelled leaders have expressed willingness to return without preconditions.

However, EPS removed Sengottaiyan from all party posts, intensifying the internal rifts. EPS's decision has drawn criticism from within and outside the party. Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin has criticized EPS for targeting the DMK alliance and advised him to address the internal conflicts within the AIADMK. Stalin has also warned of potential consequences if the AIADMK-BJP coalition gains power in Tamil Nadu, citing concerns over Hindi imposition and state rights.

The Madras High Court has also been involved in the AIADMK's leadership disputes. The court has addressed issues related to the party's bylaws, leadership challenges, and the allocation of the 'Two Leaves' symbol. Most recently, the Madras High Court allowed an appeal filed by Edappadi K. Palaniswami in a case regarding the AIADMK leadership dispute.

Sengottaiyan's pilgrimage to Haridwar takes place against this backdrop of internal conflict and political maneuvering. While he denies any intention of meeting with BJP leaders, his trip occurs amidst speculation about the AIADMK's future alliances and leadership. His actions and statements reflect the ongoing struggle for control and direction within the AIADMK as it approaches the crucial 2026 assembly elections. He has said that, in their heart, other AIADMK leaders also wanted a united AIADMK.