Sat May 24 02:42:30 UTC 2025: ## News Article: DMK Councillor Absence Exposes Party Feud in Madurai, Alleges Opposition
**Madurai, May 24, 2025** – A significant absence of DMK (Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam) councillors from a crucial monthly Corporation Council meeting in Madurai has ignited a political firestorm, with the opposition AIADMK (All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam) alleging a deep-seated feud within the ruling party.
According to AIADMK council leader Solai M. Raja, the absence of nearly 90% of DMK councillors during Friday’s meeting, convened by Mayor Indrani Pon Vasanth, demonstrates a lack of respect for the Mayor and exposes internal rifts within the DMK. Raja emphasized that the meeting had multiple resolutions that needed to be accepted by the members. Considering the situation of the city roads, AIADMK decided not to be a hurdle and allow it to be passed.
The meeting had a critical agenda, including the approval of numerous resolutions, many concerning the laying of roads and vital infrastructure improvements within the city. Officials stated that delaying these projects would further exacerbate the already deteriorating condition of Madurai’s roads.
While acknowledging the importance of the resolutions, Raja accused the DMK of “double standards,” stating that their absence, despite knowing the quorum requirements, reflected a disregard for the public. He asserted that the AIADMK chose to prioritize the city’s needs by allowing the resolutions to pass, despite the DMK’s internal issues.
A senior DMK councillor, speaking to *The Hindu*, attributed the absence to a prior commitment to a party workers’ meeting organized by Minister P. Moorthy in Uthangudi. The councillor cited preparations for the upcoming DMK general council meeting in Madurai on June 1, and the planned reception for key leaders on May 31, as the reason for the councillors’ absence. He also added that Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and Deputy Chief Minister Udayanidhi Stalin will be present in Madurai soon. The State government has also earmarked funds for laying roads and other infrastructure.
The DMK councillor vehemently denied allegations of internal groupism or disrespect towards the Mayor, dismissing the AIADMK’s claims as opportunistic. He promised swift improvements to Madurai’s roads, asserting that the AIADMK had failed to deliver during their previous term.
The incident has raised questions about the stability and unity within the DMK, particularly as Madurai prepares to host the party’s general council meeting next week. The political fallout from this absence is likely to continue in the coming days.
First Piper 