Is MK Stalin Feeling the Heat from the AIADMK-BJP Alliance?

Synopsis
Tamilisai Soundararajan claims that Chief Minister M. K. Stalin is feeling the pressure from the revived AIADMK-BJP alliance, which she believes is set to challenge the DMK's power in the upcoming 2026 Assembly elections. Can this alliance really bring about change in Tamil Nadu's political landscape?
Key Takeaways
- Tamilisai Soundararajan claims the AIADMK-BJP alliance is a serious political force.
- Stalin's confidence in winning all 234 seats is questioned.
- The alliance aims to address the DMK's misgovernance.
- Soundararajan defends her political role as a necessary public service.
- V. Senthilbalaji's resignation adds pressure on CM Stalin.
Chennai, May 1 (NationPress) Senior BJP figure and former Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan has asserted that Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin appears to be "visibly shaken" since the revival of the AIADMK-BJP alliance, insisting that this coalition is on the verge of displacing the DMK in the upcoming 2026 Assembly elections.
Addressing the media in Chennai, Soundararajan remarked, "From the moment the alliance between AIADMK and BJP began to gain traction, the Chief Minister has seemed increasingly pressured. Whether during Assembly sessions or social gatherings like weddings, he is preoccupied with this alliance.
His repeated claims that the DMK will secure all 234 seats in 2026 amount to mere wishful thinking. At this pace, it would be astonishing if he even holds onto his own seat."
Framing the AIADMK-BJP alliance as a formidable political entity ahead of the 2026 elections, Soundararajan declared that the partnership possesses the momentum and popular backing required to unseat the DMK government.
"This is not a mere opportunistic partnership; it’s a serious alliance founded on a vision to liberate Tamil Nadu from the DMK's misgovernance. The people are observing closely and are prepared for change," she stated.
In response to Chief Minister Stalin's recent comment that Soundararajan has no role other than criticizing the government, she firmly defended her political engagement as a vital public service.
"My responsibility as a politician is to challenge those in authority and ensure they are held accountable. That’s not an indication of unemployment; it’s the core of democracy. I stepped down as Governor, a distinguished constitutional role, to actively engage in politics and serve the people of Tamil Nadu. I take this commitment seriously," Soundararajan asserted.
She also poked fun at CM Stalin's rhetorical style, referencing his regular use of the phrase "Oru Kai Paapom" (Let’s see with a show of hands), stating, "Symbolic politics and catchy slogans are no longer sufficient. People demand transparent governance and measurable results. No amount of gesturing can obscure the DMK's failures."
It’s noteworthy that Chief Minister Stalin has consistently expressed confidence in the DMK's return to power for a record seventh term in 2026. Recently, at a wedding in the family of party MP N.R. Elango at Anna Arivalayam, CM Stalin cited a party leader’s projection of a 220-seat victory and proclaimed, "Why limit ourselves? Let’s aim for 234 seats. Given the overwhelming support I receive wherever I go, I wouldn’t be astonished if we win every single one.”
He further declared defiantly, "Regardless of what form the opposition takes or what alliances they create, I say bring it on! We are dedicated to fulfilling our responsibilities. Whether it’s the Income Tax department, CBI, or ED, we will not be cowed by agencies aimed at intimidating us - we’ve already faced the Emergency."
These remarks followed shortly after one of his key cabinet members, V. Senthilbalaji, stepped down from the ministry under pressure from the Supreme Court related to the cash-for-jobs scandal.