Why Did T.T.V. Dhinakaran Exit the NDA in Tamil Nadu?
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Synopsis
In a dramatic political turn, T.T.V. Dhinakaran of the AMMK has announced his party's exit from the NDA, signaling potential shifts in alliances ahead of the crucial 2026 Assembly elections. Will this change reshape Tamil Nadu's political landscape? Read on to discover the implications of this bold move.
Key Takeaways
- Dhinakaran's exit from NDA marks a pivotal shift in Tamil Nadu politics.
- New alliances will be considered in December.
- The 2026 Assembly elections will significantly impact party dynamics.
- OPS is also distancing from BJP, promoting unity within AIADMK.
- Political landscape is evolving rapidly ahead of elections.
Chennai, Sep 3 (NationPress) Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK) General Secretary T.T.V. Dhinakaran announced on Wednesday that his party will no longer be a member of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Tamil Nadu, signifying a significant change ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.
Once a reliable partner of the BJP, Dhinakaran revealed that his party will decide on potential new alliances in December, following extensive discussions with party functionaries and members.
During a press conference in Tenkasi, he stated that his previous backing for the BJP in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections was "unconditional and in the national interest," as he and his party believed that Narendra Modi’s third term would be beneficial for the nation.
However, he emphasized a clear distinction between national and state elections.
"The 2026 Assembly elections differ from the Lok Sabha votes. We will announce our alliance decisions only in December, taking into account the feelings of our cadres and office-bearers," he said.
The AMMK leader also rejected the notion that Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s attempts to unify the AIADMK factions had been successful.
"The endeavor to consolidate AIADMK has failed,” he mentioned, while remaining open to the possibility of collaborations with other parties, including Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).
Former Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam (OPS) has also distanced himself from the BJP alliance.
Recently, he held a meeting with supporters in Alwarpet, Chennai, where three main resolutions were passed, including a formal exit from the NDA.
Panruti Ramachandran, who attended, stated that OPS will embark on a state-wide tour, stressing that his faction is not currently aligned with any party. OPS has also called for unity within the AIADMK, urging all factions to come together to restore the party’s lost influence.
As the Assembly polls are anticipated in April or May 2026, the political landscape in Tamil Nadu is rapidly evolving. The ruling DMK-led alliance, the AIADMK, and the BJP-led bloc remain significant players, while Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) and TVK have confirmed their independent candidacies. In this shifting environment, Dhinakaran’s departure from the NDA and his openness to future alliances contribute to the dynamic nature of the state’s political arena.
Point of View
T.T.V. Dhinakaran's departure from the NDA underscores the fluid nature of political alliances in India. As parties navigate shifting loyalties and electoral strategies, the focus remains on the electorate's sentiments, particularly ahead of the impending Assembly elections. This move could either strengthen or weaken existing parties, highlighting the need for adaptability in the face of changing political dynamics.
NationPress
03/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did T.T.V. Dhinakaran leave the NDA?
T.T.V. Dhinakaran announced that his party, AMMK, is no longer part of the NDA to reassess alliances ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.
What does Dhinakaran's exit mean for Tamil Nadu politics?
His exit could lead to significant shifts in alliances and impact the political landscape as the Assembly elections approach.
When will AMMK decide on new alliances?
AMMK is expected to announce its new alliances in December after consultations with party members.
How has O. Panneerselvam reacted to this change?
O. Panneerselvam has distanced himself from the BJP alliance, calling for unity within the AIADMK.
What are the key players in Tamil Nadu's upcoming elections?
The key players include the ruling DMK-led alliance, AIADMK, BJP-led bloc, and independent parties like NTK and TVK.
