Coimbatore Councillor Quits DMK, Alleges Lack of Internal Democracy

The councillor of Ward 22 in the Coimbatore Corporation and DMK north Coimbatore district organiser of the party's overseas wing, Kovai Babu Selvakumar M., announced his resignation from the DMK on Saturday. He alleged that the party no longer provides space for ordinary workers and young leaders.

In a detailed resignation letter addressed to DMK president M.K. Stalin, Mr. Selvakumar stated that he and his supporters were leaving the party with immediate effect. He alleged that internal democracy had weakened, appointments had replaced organisational elections, and opportunities within the party were concentrated among a select few.

He further claimed that grassroots workers had little role in decision-making and that the party functioned in a highly centralised manner. The councillor also criticised the functioning of the Coimbatore district unit under former Minister for Electricity V. Senthilbalaji, alleging that long-time party workers had been sidelined and that district functionaries had little autonomy.

Mr. Selvakumar also alleged that even elected representatives faced difficulties in carrying out routine public works and claimed that basic civic infrastructure, including roads, drainage, streetlights and drinking water facilities, remained inadequate in several parts of the city.

Stating that he had been involved in educational and social welfare activities before joining the DMK, Mr. Selvakumar said he would continue his public service independently. He added that he would soon announce his future political course after consulting his supporters.