The developments come ahead of Sasikalas expected release from a Bengaluru prison before January 2021.
Talks are on for merger of the rebel faction led by V K Sasikala into the AIADMK, with the BJP facilitating the discussions, in preparation for the May 2021 Assembly elections. Two days ago, T T V Dhinakaran, who is running the Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK) in the absence of the jailed Sasikala, travelled to Delhi, where he is said to have met top BJP leaders.
READ | BJP as mediator, AIADMK and Sasikala hold talks for merger
According to a highly placed source, Dhinakaran has been promised earliest release of Sasikala if the talks are fruitful. However, Dhinakaran is said to have demanded that his aunt be made the general secretary and he be given a key post. The arrangement could finally be for the reins of the government to continue with the Chief Minister-Deputy CM duo of Palaniswami and Paneerselvam, while party reins pass on to Sasikala.
Also Read | After 37 years, pandemic may make Chennais famous statue man move on
The state government-appointed expert committee formed to study the pandemics impact on Tamil Nadus economy has said the lockdown to curb the spread of Covid-19 has left the state in a bad shape. A top official said the growth rate is going to be affected badly in this financial year mostly into a negative zone. Assessing the impact on various sectors and the life of the common man, the committee headed by former RBI governor C Rangarajan has recommended that the state government carry out a second round of cash distribution, besides making several other suggestions.
READ | Covid impact on economy: Urban job guarantee scheme, cash benefits among expert panel suggestions to TN govt
A senior official said the Rangarajan-led panel has recommended that the state government roll out an urban employment guarantee scheme modelled on MGNREGA. The committees report, which was handed over to Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami on Monday, has also recommended an additional budget allocation of Rs 10,000 crore for capital expenditure and an affordable rental housing scheme for the working class population in cities and towns.
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