In a significant political shift in Tamil Nadu, expelled AIADMK leader and former Chief Minister O Panneerselvam (OPS) has announced his faction’s decision to exit the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). The declaration came shortly after a brief encounter with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin during his morning walk.
Sources indicated that the move was preceded by a letter OPS sent to Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Gangaikonda Cholapuram, where he expressed his desire to meet the Prime Minister and described it as a “singular honour.” However, the meeting never materialised.
Following the perceived snub, OPS took to social media to criticise the Union Government over the delay in releasing Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) funds. The public criticism is being seen as the final straw before the decision to part ways with the NDA.
State-Wide Tour Ahead of 2026 Polls, No Current Alliances Confirmed
Panruti S Ramachandran, a senior leader and close aide of OPS, formally announced the split. “We are breaking the alliance with NDA,” he said, adding that OPS would soon launch a state-wide tour in preparation for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. Ramachandran also clarified that OPS is currently not aligned with any political party and that future alliances will be considered closer to the elections.
ALSO READ: Major breakthrough in Dharmasthala mass burial case: Sleuths dig out partial skeletal remains
While OPS did not explicitly confirm any new alliances, he did not dismiss speculation about a possible tie-up with actor Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). “Time will tell,” OPS remarked, noting that there was still ample time before the 2026 elections.
OPS, who was once a prominent AIADMK leader and key NDA ally, had formed his own faction after a contentious leadership battle within the party. His departure from the NDA may set the stage for new political realignments in Tamil Nadu in the run-up to the state polls.
