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Annamalai said his political ambitions extended beyond the framework of BJP and required a broader platform.
K Annamalai’s current position fundamentally diverges from past precedents because his political trajectory was conceived and nurtured entirely within the modern, institutional framework of the party’s current national leadership. File pic/PTI
After days of speculation over his political future, former Tamil Nadu BJP president K Annamalai on Friday announced the launch of a new political movement and confirmed that he would contest the next elections in the state under a new banner.
Annamalai also resigned from the BJP’s primary membership, saying he wanted to chart a “new path” focused on inclusive and people-centric politics.
The development triggered a wave of resignations within the Tamil Nadu BJP, with several leaders quitting the party to back Annamalai’s new venture.
In a social media address, Annamalai said his political ambitions extended beyond the framework of BJP and required a broader platform.
“From today onwards, a new path, a new movement; a new political movement,” he declared after BJP national president Nitin Nabin accepted his resignation.
He stressed that his new initiative would seek to bring together people from diverse backgrounds under an inclusive political agenda.
Annamalai Says He Continues To Respect PM Modi
Even as he parted ways with the BJP, Annamalai made it clear that he retains admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“I have great respect for PM Modi,” he said, adding that he had exited the party in a dignified manner and remained committed to introducing a new style of politics in Tamil Nadu.
Annamalai Claims Differences With BJP Persisted For 18 Months
Explaining his decision, Annamalai said the move was not sudden. He revealed that he had been discussing differences of opinion with the BJP leadership for nearly 18 months before deciding to quit.
According to him, the decision followed extensive deliberations rather than a momentary disagreement.
Annamalai Pushes For ‘Inclusive Politics’, End To Personality Cults
Outlining his political vision, Annamalai argued that Tamil Nadu needed to move beyond personality-driven politics.
“Everybody should be utilised for Tamil Nadu’s growth. We should come out of cult politics and establish common-man politics,” he said.
The former IPS officer said his movement would focus on empowering ordinary citizens and creating a more participatory political culture.
Alliance With AIADMK Seen As Key Trigger
Annamalai had reportedly become increasingly uncomfortable after being replaced by Nainar Nagendran as Tamil Nadu BJP president and following the BJP’s decision to revive its alliance with the AIADMK ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.
The AIADMK had snapped ties with the BJP in September 2023 before the Lok Sabha elections but later renewed the alliance.
Annamalai Built TN BJP’s Profile With Aggressive Anti-DMK Campaign
During his tenure as Tamil Nadu BJP chief, Annamalai emerged as one of the party’s most visible leaders in the state. Known for his aggressive political style, he relentlessly targeted the ruling DMK government and released the much-publicised “DMK Files”, alleging corruption by party leaders.
His sharp oratory, organisational skills and appeal among younger voters helped raise the BJP’s profile in Tamil Nadu.
Massive Response To Volunteer Drive
Annamalai’s new political initiative had already received an overwhelming response from the public.
According to his portal, wetheleaders.org, more than 10 lakh people registered as volunteers within hours of his call to support a new model of politics.
The figure could serve as an early indicator of the grassroots interest generated by his new venture.
TN BJP Leaders Resign To Back Annamalai
Soon after the announcement, Tamil Nadu BJP vice-president Karu Nagarajan resigned from the party and pledged support to Annamalai.
Describing him as an “energetic and bold leader”, Nagarajan said he would join the new movement.
State BJP secretary Sumathi Venkatesh also resigned from the party.
At least 13 other BJP leaders from Tamil Nadu have reportedly resigned following Annamalai’s departure.
About the Author
Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Chief Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter –twitter.com/saurabhkverma19
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