(Image source from: Deccanherald.com)
In an effort to strengthen opposition groups in Tamil Nadu, a region where it has faced difficulties, the BJP is seriously considering teaming up with actor-politician Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, as reported by sources. During a core committee gathering on his trip to the state, Union Home Minister Amit Shah encouraged the party to aim for winning rather than just participating in the Assembly elections later this year. This is important because the BJP only secured four of the 234 seats in the state in 2021 and did not gain any in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
Sources mentioned that the BJP leader intentionally chose not to meet Edappadi K Palaniswami, also known as EPS, who leads the ally AIADMK, to convey that the NDA must unite all anti-DMK groups. Reports indicate that the BJP is actively considering a partnership with Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, which has aimed to establish itself as a political alternative in Tamil Nadu. The saffron party's activities have accelerated following the TVK's statement last week, suggesting a natural alignment with the Congress over shared commitments to secularism.
"Both Congress and TVK align naturally due to their dedication to secularism and opposition to communalism. Therefore, we have always been natural allies. Additionally, Rahul Gandhi and our leader share a friendship. There are many chances for an alliance between Congress and TVK. However, the current leadership of the Tamil Nadu Congress committee might be held back from starting a conversation with TVK because of their own personal or financial interests," stated party spokesperson Felix Gerard. This move toward a potential alliance with the TVK aligns with what Shah discussed with party leaders at a core committee meeting on Sunday. He sought individual input from each leader regarding local feelings and potential partnerships, indicating that choices would be based on electoral strategy rather than emotions. He also expressed that the electoral contest should focus on the NDA against the DMK, rather than personalities. To expedite efforts, Shah requested leaders to start identifying candidates early and to work towards a large alliance framework by Pongal, which falls on January 14.
According to sources, the choice for Shah not to meet EPS was made to express that the BJP intends to act quickly and occupy all available space in Tamil Nadu's opposition landscape. "The goal was to highlight that the NDA shouldn't be confined to just one party or leader; it should unite all anti-DMK groups – from AMMK and PMK to those discontented within the AIADMK," explained a BJP leader.
