Did OPS Camp Just Exit NDA? New Political Shifts Ahead of 2026 TN Assembly Elections
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Synopsis
In a dramatic political shift, OPS has exited the NDA, raising questions about future alliances ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. With tensions rising and new meetings sparking speculation, the political landscape in Tamil Nadu is set for an intriguing transformation.
Key Takeaways
- OPS has left the NDA, signaling a potential shift in Tamil Nadu politics.
- There are currently no formal alliances with any political party.
- OPS's criticisms of the Union Government indicate a widening rift with the BJP.
- The exit may affect the Thevar community's support for OPS and future elections.
- Speculation about future alignments is growing as the 2026 elections approach.
Chennai, July 31 (NationPress) In a significant turn of events in Tamil Nadu's political arena, the faction led by former Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam (OPS) has made a formal announcement regarding its departure from the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
This declaration was articulated by senior party member and OPS supporter Panruti S. Ramachandran, who asserted, “We are terminating our alliance with the NDA.”
The announcement coincides with OPS's plans for a statewide tour aimed at rallying support for the upcoming 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.
Ramachandran mentioned that there is currently no coalition with any party, and decisions about potential alliances will be evaluated as the elections approach.
This separation is perceived as a reaction to what many see as a disregard from the central leadership.
During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Tamil Nadu, OPS had reached out to him for a meeting, expressing that it would be his “singular honor” to meet the Prime Minister at Gangaikonda Cholapuram. However, the request appears to have been denied, leaving the OPS faction feeling let down.
In the aftermath, OPS utilized social media to criticize the Union Government for delays in funds under the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, indicating a widening rift with the BJP.
His exit from the NDA is seen as the culmination of these escalating tensions.
In a twist of political intrigue, OPS was spotted meeting Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin during a morning walk today, stirring speculation about possible future partnerships.
Once a pivotal figure in the AIADMK and a former ally of the BJP within the NDA, OPS has been navigating turbulent political waters since a contentious power struggle with Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) led to a factional split in the AIADMK.
Following this schism, he formed his own faction and briefly collaborated with the BJP.
The departure of the OPS faction from the NDA is poised to significantly influence Tamil Nadu’s political landscape, particularly within the Thevar community, a powerful social group in southern Tamil Nadu that has historically supported the AIADMK.
It remains uncertain how this community will react to OPS’s decision to sever ties with the BJP.
As the 2026 elections draw near, this development sets the stage for potential realignments and evolving political loyalties in the state's ever-changing political landscape.
Point of View
The exit of OPS from the NDA is a pivotal moment reflecting the ongoing shifts in Tamil Nadu's political scene. It underscores the challenges faced by regional leaders in maintaining alliances while catering to their constituencies. As the political landscape evolves, it will be crucial for stakeholders to assess the implications of these changes on governance and public sentiment.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to OPS's exit from the NDA?
OPS's exit from the NDA is attributed to perceived neglect from the central leadership and a series of tensions with the BJP, culminating in a formal announcement made by senior party members.
How will this impact the upcoming Tamil Nadu elections?
OPS's departure from the NDA is expected to significantly influence the political landscape in Tamil Nadu, especially among the Thevar community, which has traditionally supported the AIADMK.
What are the potential future alignments for OPS?
While no formal alliances have been announced, OPS's recent meeting with Chief Minister M.K. Stalin raises speculation about possible collaborations ahead of the elections.
