- June 1, 2026
Exit Rumours, New Party Buzz And A Delhi Trip: How The Annamalai Story Unfolded
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Speculation grows over K Annamalai’s next political move as he visits Delhi, weighs exit from BJP and launch of a new platform.
File photo of former Tamil Nadu BJP President K Annamalai. (Image: PTI)
Speculation over K Annamalai’s political future intensified on Monday after the former Tamil Nadu BJP chief flew to Delhi and declined to dismiss reports that he could be preparing to launch a new political platform.
The buzz began building months ago, after Annamalai was replaced as the BJP’s state president by Nainar Nagendran in 2025 as the party sought to revive its alliance with the AIADMK ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections. Once seen as the BJP’s most prominent face in Tamil Nadu, Annamalai subsequently maintained a low profile and chose not to contest the 2026 polls, fuelling questions about his role within the party.
Annamalai Opposes CBSE’s Three-Language Policy
Those questions intensified in recent weeks after Annamalai publicly opposed the CBSE’s decision to implement the three-language policy for Class 9 students from the current academic year, a position many viewed as being at odds with the BJP’s national stance.
The latest round of speculation was triggered by reports that Annamalai could announce his exit from the BJP and launch a people’s movement that may eventually evolve into a political party. Sources close to the former IPS officer said he believes Tamil Nadu politics has entered a new phase following the rise of Chief Minister Vijay and the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).
Annamalai Promises Clarity In Two Days
As rumours swirled, Annamalai left for Delhi on Monday afternoon, prompting further questions about whether he was headed for a crucial meeting with the BJP leadership. Asked directly about reports of a new party, he stopped short of offering a denial.
“Please wait. We will sit down and talk in two days,” he told reporters at the airport.
Sources said Annamalai wants any departure from the BJP to remain amicable and avoid a public confrontation with the party leadership. However, not everyone in the BJP is convinced that an exit is imminent. A party source indicated that Annamalai could instead be entrusted with a larger organisational role, PTI reported.
Adding to the buzz is the support from a section of his followers, particularly in the Coimbatore region, who view him as a potential alternative political force in a state where the BJP won only one seat in the recent Assembly election. For now, Tamil Nadu politics is left waiting for the next chapter in the Annamalai story—one he has promised to reveal in two days.
About the Author
Manisha Roy is a Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com’s general desk. She comes with an experience of over 5 years in media industry. She covers politics and other hard news. She can be contacted at Manish…Read More
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