BJP Relocates Prime Minister Modi's Key Tamil Nadu Rally to Chennai
The Bharatiya Janata Party has made a significant change to its election strategy in Tamil Nadu. The party decided to shift Prime Minister Narendra Modi's inaugural National Democratic Alliance rally for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly polls. Originally planned for Madurai, the event will now take place on the outskirts of Chennai on January 23.
New Venue Selection in Chengalpattu District
A senior BJP leader confirmed the development on Tuesday. "We have identified a 60–70 acre site at Mamandur in Chengalpattu district as a potential venue. It will be finalised on Wednesday," the leader stated. The state unit began searching for suitable locations on Chennai's outskirts after receiving specific advice.
Key Reasons Behind the Venue Change
Party leaders explained two primary factors influenced this decision. First, the BJP's national leadership noted that Prime Minister Modi has not addressed a public meeting in Chennai for a considerable time. In contrast, Madurai received substantial political attention over recent months.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited Madurai in June 2025. State BJP president Nainar Nagenthran launched his statewide rally from the temple city in October. The second reason involved security and logistics. The Prime Minister's Office and the Special Protection Group advised that Chennai offered a more suitable location from both security and logistical perspectives.
NDA Alliance Partners Expected to Attend
Leaders from various NDA constituents in Tamil Nadu are anticipated to participate in this major rally. The expected attendees include AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami, PMK president Anbumani Ramadoss, Tamil Maanila Congress leader G K Vasan, and TMMK founder B John Pandian. Senior BJP leaders will also join them at the event.
Previous Plans for Madurai Venue
Earlier, the NDA alliance sought permission to conduct the rally at Vandiyur in Madurai. BJP and AIADMK leaders submitted a formal application to the Madurai police commissioner for this purpose. There was also a proposal for Prime Minister Modi to visit Thiruparankundram during the trip. Following the venue change decision, the Madurai police have been officially informed about the new arrangements.
BJP Leaders Travel to Delhi for Pongal Celebrations
Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu BJP president Nainar Nagenthran and former state BJP president K Annamalai are traveling to Delhi on Tuesday night. They will attend Pongal celebrations at Union Minister L Murugan's residence. Prime Minister Modi is likely to participate in these celebrations on Wednesday, adding to the political significance of the week.
The relocation of this major political rally indicates the BJP's strategic focus on Chennai as it prepares for the crucial 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. The party aims to strengthen its presence in the state through this high-profile event featuring the Prime Minister and key alliance partners.
