EPS

Edappadi K. Palaniswami, commonly known as EPS, born on May 12, 1954, in Siluvampalayam, Edappadi, Salem district, Tamil Nadu, is a senior Indian politician who served as the 7th Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu from February 2017 to May 2021. He is a long-standing member of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK).

EPS began his political career as a grassroots worker in the AIADMK and rose through the ranks over several decades. He served as a Member of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly (MLA) from the Edappadi constituency multiple times and held various ministerial portfolios including Public Works and Highways.

He became Chief Minister following the passing of J. Jayalalithaa and the political turmoil within the AIADMK. During his tenure as CM, he oversaw the state’s response to several challenges. After the DMK’s victory in the 2021 elections, EPS became the Leader of the Opposition. He was subsequently elected as the interim general secretary of the AIADMK. EPS represents the Salem region’s political influence in Tamil Nadu politics and continues to be a key figure in the state’s political landscape as the main opposition leader.