BJP leader K. Annamalai has firmly dismissed speculation about a potential alliance with actor Vijay’s political outfit, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. Speaking at the India Today Conclave South 2025, Annamalai made it clear that Vijay has consistently portrayed the BJP as an ideological adversary in Tamil Nadu, leaving no room for collaboration.
According to Annamalai, the politics of the state continues to be shaped by a deeply entrenched perception that opposes any association with what is seen as a “north Indian party.” He pointed out that Vijay has not only been critical of the BJP but has also openly targeted AIADMK, the BJP’s key ally in Tamil Nadu. Citing Vijay’s remarks at a Madurai conference, where he strongly criticised the AIADMK, Annamalai said the actor’s positioning makes any joint platform with the BJP or NDA highly unlikely.
The comments came in the backdrop of BJP vice president Khushbu Sundar’s recent public appeal to Vijay to join forces with the BJP and AIADMK to take on the ruling DMK. While Khushbu’s outreach seemed to indicate that the BJP was open to broadening its alliance, Annamalai’s remarks have now shut the door on such speculation.
Acknowledging Vijay’s rising political relevance, particularly among younger and first-time voters, Annamalai described Gen Z as “naturally anti-establishment” and noted that Tamil Nadu has historically embraced new political entrants. However, he stressed that despite Vijay’s appeal, the NDA already has a tested leadership in Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS), who remains their collective choice for the chief ministerial face in 2026.
Annamalai also underscored that the next election in Tamil Nadu will not just be about personalities but will involve deeper ideological battles and generational shifts. He predicted that multiple issues—ranging from governance to regional identity—will dominate the contest. For the NDA, he said, the immediate priority is to consolidate its alliance and present a united front against the DMK, rather than seeking tie-ups with those who have openly distanced themselves from the BJP.
This firm stand reflects the BJP’s broader strategy of strengthening its existing coalition with AIADMK, while positioning itself as a consistent and stable alternative to the ruling DMK, even as new players like Vijay’s TVK enter the fray.
