Will remain in NDA, says OPS, signalling AIADMK unity
OPS said that he was in regular touch with other BJP leaders, including Tamil Nadu BJP chief Nainar Nagenthran
O Panneerselvam (OPS), former chief minister and expelled AIADMK leader, declared on Thursday (May 15) that he will remain part of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) despite tensions with AIADMK chief Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS).
Speaking to journalists after meeting his supporters in Chennai, OPS said, “We were with NDA in the last Lok Sabha election, and we will continue to be with them, whether someone likes it or not.”
On EPS’ leadership
When asked if he would accept EPS’s leadership in Tamil Nadu, OPS replied, “We will decide what is best for Tamil Nadu. The people know what is good for the state.” He also expressed disappointment over Union Home Minister Amit Shah not meeting him during Shah’s recent Chennai visit. “I felt bad, hope we will meet during his next visit,” OPS said, adding that he is in regular touch with other BJP leaders, including Tamil Nadu BJP chief Nainar Nagenthran, whom he called a “good friend”.
Vaithilingam’s claim
OPS’s supporter and former MLA Vaithilingam claimed that AIADMK cannot win the upcoming 2026 Assembly election without them. “EPS said no alliance with BJP earlier, but now he has joined hands with them. Similarly, he will change his mind and accept us. AIADMK must return to its old, united strength,” Vaithilingam said.
‘Will continue legal battle’
OPS confirmed he will continue his legal battle against EPS over the AIADMK’s name, symbol, and EPS’s appointment as general secretary. He avoided commenting on reports of senior AIADMK leader Sengottaiyan meeting BJP leaders, including Amit Shah, saying, “Sengottaiyan has not spoken about it, so how can I?”
Taking a dig at EPS, OPS said, “EPS keeps saying he won’t accept me, but time will tell. He said no to BJP, but now he is with them.” OPS also accused the DMK government of failing to keep its promises to the people.
Dhinakaran lauding EPS
Meanwhile, TTV Dhinakaran, leader of the AMMK, is reportedly growing closer to EPS, praising his leadership. EPS has withdrawn a legal case against Dhinakaran over the use of former AIADMK chief Jayalalithaa’s name. However, EPS has made it clear to BJP leaders that he will not accept OPS back into AIADMK. During his Chennai visit, Amit Shah said that the BJP would not meddle in AIADMK’s internal matters.
‘Might think reconciling with OPS’
AIADMK insiders say EPS might consider reconciling with OPS and VK Sasikala at the last moment to strengthen AIADMK ahead of the 2026 polls. Sources say the BJP also supports the idea of a united AIADMK to challenge the DMK-led alliance.
