Is OPS Reversing His Stance on a New Party Plan, Igniting AIADMK Merger Speculations?
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Synopsis
In a surprising political shift, O. Panneerselvam, former Tamil Nadu CM, denies plans for a new party, igniting speculation of an AIADMK merger. This follows his meeting with Amit Shah, hinting at a potential return to the AIADMK leadership. As factions diverge, the political landscape remains uncertain ahead of the 2026 elections.
Key Takeaways
- OPS denies plans for a new political party.
- Speculation about AIADMK merger reignited.
- Upcoming general council meeting could be pivotal.
- Political alliances remain uncertain heading to 2026 elections.
- Factions within AIADMK are increasingly divided.
Chennai, Dec 6 (NationPress) In a major political turnaround, former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam (OPS) has refuted claims of ever initiating the formation of a new political party. This marks a stark contrast to his previous hints of establishing an independent entity.
This change in narrative follows his recent trip to Delhi, where he met with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, sparking renewed conjecture regarding a potential reconciliation with the AIADMK leadership.
Party insiders reveal that OPS' softened stance is a result of reassurances from senior BJP figures, with discussions anticipated to commence soon to enable his reintegration into the AIADMK.
Reports suggest that a resolution facilitating this could be proposed during the party's general council meeting set for December 10, indicating a possible recalibration in the leadership dynamics of the opposition.
OPS' political trajectory has been marked by significant upheavals and dramatic separations. He was once a loyal supporter of the late Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa, but turned into a dissident in 2017, accusing V.K. Sasikala of attempting to take control of the AIADMK.
Although he briefly shared power with Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) under a dual-leadership framework, their alliance deteriorated, leading to his expulsion from the party in 2022. Since then, OPS has been leading the AIADMK Workers' Rights Retrieval Committee and had previously suggested forming a new political party—a position he has now reversed.
These latest developments have also dampened the brief alliance that OPS had with TTV Dhinakaran and senior leader K.A. Sengottaiyan following their meeting during the Devar Jayanthi celebrations in Pasumpon in October. Their recent separate visits to the Jayalalithaa memorial in Chennai this week further indicate growing distances among the factions.
In the meantime, Dhinakaran reiterated that his Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK) would not forge an alliance with the NDA as long as EPS remains the coalition’s candidate for Chief Minister.
Sasikala, who was once vocal about the necessity for AIADMK unity, has adopted a more cautious stance this time. She merely mentioned that Sengottaiyan should not have hurried to join Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) and refrained from reiterating her earlier calls for unification.
With OPS, Dhinakaran, and Sasikala yet to devise a unified strategy, political analysts express uncertainty regarding any immediate consolidation within the AIADMK, especially as the countdown to the 2026 Assembly elections intensifies.
Point of View
The recent developments surrounding OPS highlight the fluidity of political allegiances in Tamil Nadu. As parties navigate their strategies ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, the potential reconciliation between OPS and AIADMK could reshape the opposition landscape. However, uncertainty looms as factions within the party remain divided, underscoring the complexity of Tamil Nadu's political arena.
NationPress
06/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted OPS to deny his new party plans?
OPS's denial follows a meeting with Amit Shah and is perceived as a strategic move to re-align with AIADMK, influenced by assurances from senior BJP leaders.
What is the significance of the upcoming AIADMK general council meeting?
The meeting on December 10 could propose a resolution for OPS's return to AIADMK, potentially reshaping party leadership dynamics.
How has OPS's political journey evolved over the years?
OPS has experienced several political shifts, from being a loyalist to J. Jayalalithaa to becoming a rebel against Sasikala, and now exploring reconciliation with AIADMK.
What does Dhinakaran's stance indicate for AIADMK's future?
Dhinakaran's refusal to ally with NDA as long as EPS is the CM candidate reflects internal divisions within AIADMK, complicating prospects for unity.
What does Sasikala's cautious approach suggest?
Sasikala's reluctance to push for unity indicates a shift in her strategy, possibly aiming to maintain her influence within the party amid factional struggles.
