This refers to the article, “Old, new crisis that faces regional parties” (October 14) by Kalyani Shankar. ‘Amma’ for her followers, All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam supremo J Jayalalithaa, the most flamboyant, powerful and controversial leader, has been hailed as a demigod. But now, Tamil Nadu has landed in a unique situation, for the State has been without a Chief Minister ever since Jayalalithaa has been unwell. That she reportedly continues to be on respiratory support makes one wonder on her actual condition.
Most, if not all of those who go to see her, are told that she is progressing well. But hardly anyone is allowed to go close to the ailing leader. Since the much-revered politician is the State’s Chief Minister, the people are entitled to know the truth about her condition. Following criticism that the State is going adrift without proper delegation of authority, the Governor has taken an unprecedented step to temporarily allot portfolios to Finance Minister O Panneerselvam until she is in a position to attend to her duties.