BJP’s Annamalai Hints at Expanding NDA Alliance Ahead of Polls in Tamil Nadu

Annamalai, the President of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Tamil Nadu hints at the expansion of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the state, emphasizing that alliance dynamics are a “work in progress.”

Speaking to reporters after a meeting with BJP office bearers and district presidents, Annamalai said that any alliance is a work in progress. “Closer to the elections, you will see a different formation. We are pleased to maintain excellent relations with all NDA constituent parties. The NDA constituents are firmly committed to the alliance. We have seven more months, and many things may evolve,” he added.

Furthermore, Annamalai asserted that the 2024 Lok Sabha elections are aimed at electing Narendra Modi as the Prime Minister of the country for the third time. He confidently asserted that this sentiment would also resonate in Tamil Nadu, with all 39 MPs from the state ultimately supporting Prime Minister Modi.

Responding to allegations made against him by AIADMK leaders that contributed to the party’s withdrawal from the NDA alliance, Annamalai refrained from addressing specific charges. He indicated that the stance of the state’s populace would become apparent after the 2024 election.

AIADMK had terminated its alliance with the BJP, citing accusations that state BJP leaders had disrespected icons such as former Chief Ministers C N Annadurai and J Jayalalithaa, a move that had provoked controversy and discontent among AIADMK leaders.

AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi Palaniswami clarified that there had been no external pressure to exit the BJP-led NDA in the state. He stated, “We stand by our decision to sever ties with the BJP. No external pressure influenced our decision. A few incidents hurt our cadre.”

Palaniswami further added, “From Prime Minister Modi, Union Minister Amit Shah, and BJP President J P Nadda, no external pressure was exerted on us. We decided to discontinue our association with the BJP, respecting the voice of our cadre.”

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