Ex-Tamil Nadu CM OPS exits NDA after meeting MK Stalin
What's the story
In a major political shift in Tamil Nadu, expelled AIADMK leader O Panneerselvam has announced his exit from the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). The announcement came just hours after he met Chief Minister MK Stalin during a routine morning walk. The decision was confirmed by Panruti S Ramachandran, a former minister and close aide of Panneerselvam. "Hereafter the Committee will not be a part of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA)," Panneerselvam simply said.
Meeting snub
Panneerselvam sought appointment with Modi, denied meeting
Before announcing his exit, Panneerselvam had written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Gangaikonda Cholapuram in Tamil Nadu. He had sought an appointment with the PM, calling it his "singular honor" to meet him. However, he was denied a meeting. This perceived snub led him to publicly criticize the Union Government over delays in releasing Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) funds.
Political speculation
No alliance with any party at present
Panneerselvam said Union Minister of State for Education Jayant Chaudhary said that ₹2,151 crore under the program has been put on hold over non-compliance with the three-language policy. Now that Panneerselvam has exited the NDA, he will soon embark on a state-wide tour ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. He said, "At present, there is no alliance with any party. In the future, we will take a call on alliance closer to the elections."
Political speculation
Possibility of aligning with Vijay's TVK not ruled out
However, Panneerselvam, who was present at the announcement, did not rule out the possibility of aligning with actor Vijay's party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). He said, "Time will tell," adding that there is still time before the elections. Panneerselvam had earlier been a prominent AIADMK leader and BJP ally in the NDA but had formed his own faction after an internal power struggle within AIADMK. He was expelled by the AIADMK in 2022 for "anti-party" activities.