AIADMK Executive Committee to Convene on May 2 for NDA Expansion Talks in Tamil Nadu

Synopsis
The AIADMK has called an Executive Committee meeting to be held on May 2, focusing on the expansion of the NDA in Tamil Nadu. This meeting marks a significant moment for the party following its rejoining of the NDA.
Key Takeaways
- AIADMK's Executive Committee meeting on May 2.
- Discussion on NDA's expansion in Tamil Nadu.
- Party rejoined NDA on April 11.
- Leadership of Edappadi K. Palaniswami for upcoming elections.
- Internal discontent expressed in recent meetings.
Chennai, April 16 (NationPress) The All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) has scheduled an Executive Committee meeting for May 2 to discuss the expansion of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) within Tamil Nadu.
This significant gathering will include all district secretaries, state secretaries where AIADMK has branches, as well as MPs, MLAs, and headquarters officials, marking the party's first substantial internal dialogue since its formal rejoining of the NDA.
The AIADMK, which had previously parted ways with the BJP in September 2023, realigned with the party on April 11.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced this renewed alliance, clarifying that the NDA would contest the 2026 Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu under the leadership of AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS).
A critical factor leading to this realignment was the removal of K. Annamalai as the BJP state President.
His replacement, Nainar Nagendran, a more seasoned and prudent politician, was reportedly appointed in response to the AIADMK's demand for Annamalai's ousting as a prerequisite for rejoining the alliance.
While Palaniswami has not publicly elaborated on the alliance, sources within the AIADMK indicate he has initiated discussions with other political parties to bolster the NDA coalition.
Notably, conversations are in progress with the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK), which was allied with the AIADMK during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
The DMDK narrowly lost to the Congress in Virudhunagar after a competitive battle.
EPS is also reportedly seeking dialogue with certain parties currently associated with the DMK.
However, at least two recent internal meetings of the AIADMK have witnessed expressions of dissatisfaction.
On Sunday, a minority wing functionary from Pudukkottai resigned in protest.
The forthcoming May 2 meeting is anticipated to address the party's concerns and strategize the NDA's growth in Tamil Nadu as the alliance prepares for a robust electoral contest in 2026.