A section of supporters of former Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam (OPS) has announced that they will join the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), following OPS’s recent move to the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK).
Bharathiar, identified as a district-level functionary from the Nilgiris who had been associated with OPS, said the former leader’s decision to align with the DMK was “unacceptable” to many grassroots workers and long-time supporters. He pointed out that OPS had earned the trust of party cadres during his tenure in public life and that the sudden political shift had disappointed a section of his followers.
Stating that discussions with TVK leadership had been completed, Bharathiar said the supporters would formally join the party soon. The exact date of induction is expected to be announced shortly.
The group expressed confidence in TVK’s leadership and said they would work actively at the grassroots level to strengthen the party ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.
The development marks another significant political realignment in the state, as leaders and cadres reassess their positions in the run-up to the polls.