Former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam (OPS) stated that AIADMK can secure victory only if all splintered factions unite under one umbrella, amid ongoing efforts to consolidate opposition ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.
AIADMK’s general council and executive committee meetings occurred today, at Vanagaram in Chennai, marking the first such gathering since the party’s alliance with BJP was sealed.
Speculation swirled over resolving internal rifts and reintegrating estranged leaders like OPS, especially as the 2026 polls approach. In Bodinayakkanur, OPS told reporters that everyone desiring Tamil Nadu’s welfare wants the fragmented AIADMK to reunite.
OPS highlighted how AIADMK and BJP contesting separately in the recent Lok Sabha elections split votes, allowing DMK to win seats despite fewer votes in several constituencies. He warned against repeating this scenario, noting BJP’s top leadership, including Amit Shah, is intensifying efforts to broaden and strengthen the AIADMK alliance.
Amit Shah’s primary aim focuses on channeling all AIADMK votes under one banner to avoid fragmentation. Recent developments include BJP Tamil Nadu chief Annamalai pushing in Delhi for OPS and TTV Dhinakaran’s return to the NDA fold as AIADMK prepares for its meets.
OPS’ remarks have ignited fresh debates in political circles about a potential AIADMK reunion.