CHENNAI: Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK) general secretary TTV Dhinakaran is reportedly in a catch-22 situation over what was perceived as an imminent return to the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) fold, as he is allegedly taken aback by the sections of the front leaking information, even before he could officially make the announcement.

Sources believe this is putting him in an awkward position as he has to tone down from his rhetoric against AIADMK chief Edappadi Palaniswami, opposing him being the CM face of the NDA tooth and nail, even though he had hinted at it, saying that there aren't permanent enemies in politics, and the focus would always be on how to win.

Party insiders point out that a decision contrary to his earlier position of going to any ends to oppose Palaniswami could result in a loss of support among cadres. As a result, Dhinakaran has so far refrained from making any official announcement about rejoining the NDA. The thorn in the flesh seems to be the alliance leaders not giving him enough time to adjust his political strategy.

This also puts AMMK's earlier stance, moving closer towards Vijay's party, into balance. At that time, there were strong expectations that Dhinakaran would align with the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). He has also been consistently expressing support for actor-turned-politician Vijay.

Speculations over Dhinakaran's reported acceptance to rejoin the NDA during an in-person meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi are in limbo due to the developments.

Meanwhile, the AMMK on Tuesday dismissed media reports suggesting confusion or pressure over its alliance plans, stating that the party’s general secretary would announce the decision at an appropriate time, keeping in mind the interests of Tamil Nadu and the party.

In a statement issued by the party headquarters, AMMK said its general secretary had already made this clear during the party’s executive committee and general council meetings held in Thanjavur on January 5.

The party also refuted reports claiming that the general secretary had been absent from party programmes in recent days, clarifying that no events were scheduled after the general council meeting due to personal commitments and the upcoming Pongal holidays.

“There is no hesitation, confusion or pressure on the general secretary regarding the alliance issue,” the statement said.

All eyes are on Dhinakaran's next public appearance at the 109th birth anniversary celebrations of former Chief Minister MG Ramachandran on January 17 in Chennai, where he also meets party office-bearers, expecting some direct clarification on the issue.