Why Didn't Sasikala Become Chief Minister After Jayalalithaa's Death?

A crucial question in Tamil Nadu politics revolves around why Sasikala, the long-time confidante of Jayalalithaa, did not become the Chief Minister (CM) of Tamil Nadu after Jayalalithaa's death. This article explores the labyrinthine politics and the complex maneuvering that led Sasikala to her current position, or rather, the absence thereof.

Conviction and Ban

Sasikala, along with Jayalalithaa and two other individuals, was convicted in a court case. The Supreme Court upheld her conviction, leading to a four-year jail term and a six-year ban from contesting in elections. This legality became a significant hurdle in her path to becoming the CM.

From House Servant to Political Aide?

Contrary to popular belief, Sasikala was not directly involved in politics until she rose to prominence as a close aide of Jayalalithaa. Her journey from a house servant to a key figure in the government is a narrative of political manipulation and manipulation of power dynamics.

Ambition and Power Play

Local media report that Sasikala did attempt to take control of the party and the Chief Minister's position shortly after Jayalalithaa's death. However, her efforts were stymied by the influence of BJP top brass from Delhi. These powerful figures withheld support from her, leading to a temporary setback.

Sasikala, undeterred, managed to keep her MLAs in the same wing of Apollo Hospitals and collected their signatures in support of her. She sought assistance from various quarters, including a BJP women advocate from Coimbatore and Vengaiah Naidu and Delhi BJP, to persuade them against her.

BJP's Strategy and Sasikala's Countermeasures

The BJP believed that it could manage the affairs of Tamil Nadu and the Parliament more effectively with OP Singha (OPS) in the position. This strategic decision forced Sasikala to withdraw from a direct confrontation for the time being. However, she was patient, waiting for the right moment to make her move.

As OPS became closer to the BJP at the national level with PM support, Sasikala grew increasingly frustrated. She ultimately decided to position herself as the General Secretary of AIADMK, aiming to manipulate the political landscape and influence the BJP to delay the Supreme Court judgment which had been delayed for over eight months.

However, the BJP's quick move to push for an early judgment from the Supreme Court came as a shock to Sasikala. She feared that this move would derange her plans. Another blow came from OPS, with the backing of the BJP, leading to a further deterioration of Sasikala's position.

Political Intrigue and Proxy Government

The political situation in Tamil Nadu is fraught with intrigue and power play. Vaiko, who played a significant role in helping AIADMK win in Tamil Nadu through tactical alliances, has now become a supporter of Sasikala's government. This has led to a government run by a proxy from Bengaluru prison, raising questions about the sustainability and integrity of the current administration.

While the current government faces challenges and seems to be on tenuous grounds, the political landscape in Tamil Nadu remains unpredictable. The question of why Sasikala did not become the CM is a reflection of the complex and sometimes cruel nature of Indian politics.