Due to limited political benefit and institutional support for continuing the case, K. Annamalai, founder of We The Leaders Foundation and former BJP leader, along with DMK treasurer and Sriperumbudur MP TR Baalu, have withdrawn defamation cases filed against each other through mutual agreement. The cases had been ongoing in court until the withdrawals.
The dispute began in 2023 when Annamalai released the first part of the DMK Files, accusing DMK leaders of holding disproportionate assets and sharing a video detailing property valuations. The DMK responded with legal notices claiming defamation against Chief Minister MK Stalin’s family and senior party figures, including Kanimozhi, Udhayanidhi Stalin and TR Baalu.
In his complaint, Baalu stated that only he and his son, a minister, are involved in politics, and that Annamalai’s claims about investments in multiple companies lacked evidence. He sought action under defamation laws.
On June 30, Annamalai confirmed that Baalu had withdrawn the ₹100 crore suit but reaffirmed his original allegations. He noted that he had cross-examined Baalu during the trial and later filed a counter-case after alleged remarks in court.
The proceedings lasted several years and reached an intense phase in February 2026, with questions on assets including ships, a distillery and property holdings. Baalu maintained his defense throughout. The cases were dropped by mutual consent in June 2026.
