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Tamil Nadu: Kadambur Raju Denies Calling 1998 AIADMK-BJP Split A ‘Historic Blunder’, Says Remarks Twisted
The AIADMK - BJP Alliance in Tamil Nadu
Former Tamil Nadu minister and Kovilpatti MLA Kadambur Raju has clarified that he never used the term “historic blunder" while referring to AIADMK’s 1998 decision to withdraw from the BJP-led government, The New Indian Express reported.
His comments, allegedly made during a joint meeting of BJP and AIADMK functionaries in Thoothukudi ahead of AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami’s visit, were widely circulated online and sparked political reactions across party lines.
Clarification Amid Social Media Backlash
Raju said his words were taken out of context by people with vested interests.
He maintained that he never used the term “historic blunder” and that his speech was intended to highlight the political consequences that followed the AIADMK’s exit in 1998.
According to Raju, the decision opened the door for DMK to align with the BJP and remain in power at the Centre for 14 years.
A Question of Political Narratives
Responding to criticism, Raju pointed out a perceived double standard in political discourse.
“I was speaking about the narrative that AIADMK’s alliance with the saffron party is bad, whereas it was good when DMK allied with it,” he said.
The clarification comes as both parties navigate alliance dynamics in the lead-up to the next round of elections.
