Former AIADMK minister C Vijayabaskar resigned from the Tamil Nadu Assembly
June 16, 2026: Former AIADMK minister C Vijayabaskar resigned from the Tamil Nadu Assembly on Tuesday, becoming the fifth AIADMK legislator to step down since the state elections. His resignation has triggered speculation that he may join the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, following the path taken by other rebel lawmakers. Assembly Speaker J C D Prabhakar confirmed that Vijayabaskar personally submitted his resignation and that it was accepted in accordance with legislative rules.
Earlier in the day, Vijayabaskar intensified his criticism of AIADMK chief Edappadi K Palaniswami without naming him directly. In social media posts, he argued that leadership should be based on dedication and unity rather than power and arrogance. He also stated that history remembers leaders who unite people rather than those who expel party workers. His remarks have further exposed divisions within the AIADMK despite recent reconciliation efforts between rival factions.
The split within the AIADMK became visible during the Assembly floor test in May, when a group of legislators supported the ruling TVK. Vijayabaskar, who was removed from key party posts during the internal reshuffle, later held consultations with supporters in his Viralimalai constituency and indicated that his future political decisions would reflect the wishes of his voters. His resignation now adds another layer of uncertainty to Tamil Nadu’s evolving political landscape.