Former Tamil Nadu BJP leader Annamalai plans to form his own political party based on nationalist principles after rejecting proposals from the party’s central leadership, according to sources on Tuesday.
Sources indicated that Annamalai held discussions with BJP national secretary BL Santhosh and state president Nitin Nabin earlier that day, amid rumors about his future and reports of a new party launch in the state.
The same sources noted that Annamalai declined offers of central roles or a Rajya Sabha seat. He also ruled out joining any existing Tamil Nadu party, including Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, and intends to start an independent outfit instead.
This choice reportedly stems from the BJP’s alliance with the AIADMK and efforts to avoid appearing opposed to Dravidian politics.
Annamalai has not commented publicly, but the move could alter Tamil Nadu’s political scene before the next elections.
The reports follow posters in Coimbatore featuring Annamalai’s image and the phrase “Fearless minds gave no limits,” which fueled speculation. He has skipped two state central committee meetings, while his fan group Annamalai Anbu Koottam recruits new members.
Tensions also surfaced over the three-language policy, with Annamalai last week calling on the Union Education Ministry to delay its rollout until 2029-30.
Additional friction arose from his strained ties with the AIADMK before assembly polls, which reportedly contributed to his removal as state chief, and his comments on CN Annadurai and J Jayalalithaa.
