In the high voltage political drama that's unraveling in Tamil Nadu, several AIADMK MLAs were shepherded into a resort on ECR on late Wednesday night by the Sasikala camp.
Golden Bay Resorts, where all the action is taking place, is seeing frenzied activity. Speaking to The News Minute, a source who did not wish to be identified, said that the hotel received a call on Wednesday afternoon from an AIADMK member.
"They said that they wanted to book the resort. Since there were only tourists who'd taken the day booking, the management agreed. But suddenly, they cancelled because they decided to go to Delhi. However, last night, around 10 or 10.30, they suddenly asked for the rooms again."
The source added that previously, too, the political party has made such demands, without making any payment.
Asked how many MLAs are currently there, the source said, "They've occupied the full resort. There's no room to even sleep." Health Minister Vijaya Bhaskar and another minister are also present at the resort, the source said.
The source also revealed that only the resort's driver is permitted to go out and buy groceries so food can be prepared.
"The staff in the resort are not allowed to go out. They are also not allowed to make or take phone calls," the source said.
The source also noted that the MLAs are being given alcohol: "They are being brainwashed there."
Asked when they are likely to leave, the source revealed that currently, lunch preparations are on at the resort and that there's no plan as of now for the "guests" to move from the place.
"Don't know if they will stay the night again," the source said.
According to their website, Golden Bay is the first backwater resort in Chennai which also has a floating restaurant. It's located next to a number of beaches and entertainment centres but the biggest show of the year is going on inside the resort itself.