The Supreme Court has set aside the Karnataka High Court verdict acquitting Sasikala, her niece Ilavarasi, nephew VN Sudhakaran and late CM Jayalalithaa in the Disproportionate Assets case.
Even as there was jubilation at interim Chief Minister O Panneerselvam’s residence, supporters of the BJP were also celebrating.
The President of the Tamil Nadu unit of the BJP, Tamilisai Soundarajan, said that the state “has been saved by the SC verdict on DA case”.
Supporters of the BJP viewed the SC verdict as a welcome move, as they said it would provide an entry to the party in the state, which has always been a Dravidian stronghold.
The BJP had also been backing Panneerselvam, ever since his revolt, following the announcement that Sasikala was to take over as the state’s Chief Minister.
Many were in praise of Governor Vidyasagar Rao, who managed to stall the decision of appointing a CM until the verdict of the apex court.
This comes after a week of criticism against the Governor, for not taking action and delaying his decision.
Following the SC verdict, BJP leader H Raja said, “I profusely thank the Governor of Tamil Nadu for saving TN from another political crisis. Dharma has won.”
Union Urban Development minister and BJP leader Venkaiah Naidu said, “SC verdict out today. Need of the hour is to enable an able and stable government in Tamil Nadu as per the wishes of the people of State.”
“After the Supreme Court verdict, I am sure Governor of Tamil Nadu will ensure a stable govt for State consistent with aspirations of people,” said Ravi Shankar Prasad.
Meanwhile, the court has asked Sasikala to surrender immediately to complete her 4-year jail term awarded by the Special Court. The Special Court had also imposed a penatly of Rs 10 crore on Sasikala, Ilavarasi and Sudhakaran and this penalty stands with Tuesday’sSupreme Court verdict.
Following her conviction, Sasikala also cannot contest elections for the next 10 years.
The AIADMK General Secretary who was elected as leader of the Legislature Party on February 5, will be ineligible as a result, to contest for bye-elections.
Honorable Governor Mr. Vidyasagar Rao is the standing testament of justice & conviction during this const crisis in TN. @drtamilisaibjp
— BJP Gupta (@BJPsengupta) February 14, 2017
Now tht Sasikala is convicted by the Supreme Court will those accusing @PMOIndia & TN Governor playing games show the courtesy of an apology
— C.T.Ravi (@CTRavi_BJP) February 14, 2017
In retrospect, Governor Vidya Sagar Rao decision seems to have saved another #TNCM going to prison. #SasikalaVsOPS
— Krishna Saagar Rao (@BJPKrishnasagar) February 14, 2017
I don’t see Governor Vidya Sagar Rao has anything else to do now. #OPS continues to be the unchallenged #TNCM. #OPSvsSasikala
— Krishna Saagar Rao (@BJPKrishnasagar) February 14, 2017
Shashikala convicted. Governor was right in waiting for the judgement.
— Ram Madhav (@rammadhavbjp) February 14, 2017
Source: The News Minute