Sasikala's conviction will strengthen roots of democracy, end corruption in TN: JD (U)

Hailing the Supreme Court's verdict on AIADMK general secretary V.K. Sasikala in connection with a 19-year old disproportionate assets case, the Janata Dal (United) on Wednesday said this move will strengthen the roots of democracy and will bring an end to corruption in Tamil Nadu.

"I think people should respect the decision of the Supreme Court. This will however strengthen the roots of democracy and somewhere will bring an end to corruption. Now, the AIADMK will have to decide who will be their party leader and how will their party run. And what face they will show to the people of Tamil Nadu," JD (U) leader Ajay Alok told ANI.

The Supreme Court yesterday convicted Sasikala in a 19-year old disproportionate assets case that also involved late former Tamil Nadu chief minister J. Jayalalithaa.

In the court's verdict in the case, Sasikala and her two relatives were found guilty under Prevention of Corruption Act.

However, maintaining a strong front despite being convicted in the disproportionate assets case Sasikala had yesterday said that no "force" can separate her from the party.

"You must remain united, no matter where I am caged. No force can separate me from the AIADMK, wherever I may be I will always be thinking about the party," an emotional Sasikala said.

Taking a dig at her rival and acting Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam, Sasikala exuded confidence stating that the former has the support of some AIADMK cadres whereas she has the backing of the party legislators.