Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s visit to Tamil Nadu has intensified speculation about a possible BJP-AIADMK alliance ahead of the 2026 state assembly elections. His visit comes amid reports of backchannel talks between the two parties, following AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami’s (EPS) recent meeting with Shah in Delhi. While AIADMK had earlier severed ties with the BJP, the latest developments suggest a possible realignment.
A crucial element in the alliance discussions is the role of BJP Tamil Nadu president K. Annamalai, who has had a strained relationship with AIADMK leaders. Sources indicate that his continuation as state BJP chief could be a stumbling block in the negotiations. Speculations are rife that Annamalai may step down, with options such as a Rajya Sabha seat or a national-level role being considered to facilitate the alliance. The BJP leadership is reportedly weighing its choices carefully, given Annamalai’s aggressive brand of politics and its impact on party strategy in Tamil Nadu.
During his visit, Shah is also expected to meet RSS ideologue S. Gurumurthy and leaders from BJP’s regional allies, including the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) and Tamil Maanila Congress. These meetings signal the BJP’s efforts to consolidate support among its allies ahead of the polls. While an official announcement on the alliance is yet to be made, Shah’s visit is being closely watched as a crucial moment in Tamil Nadu’s evolving political landscape.