In a significant political development in Tamil Nadu, the Bharatiya Janata Party has extended a formal proposal to expelled AIADMK leader O Panneerselvam, offering him a potential return to the National Democratic Alliance through an alliance with the Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam. According to senior BJP leaders familiar with the negotiations, this strategic move aims to consolidate fragmented factions ahead of the crucial 2026 state assembly elections.
Two-Path Proposal for Political Rehabilitation
BJP insiders have revealed that O Panneerselvam, commonly known as OPS, has been presented with two distinct options for his political rehabilitation within the NDA framework. The primary proposal involves his re-entry into the alliance as part of AMMK, where he would contest elections under their party symbol. The alternative pathway would see him running as an independent candidate while using the BJP's electoral symbol.
"Under both scenarios, OPS could be allotted two or three assembly constituencies in the strategically important Madurai and Theni districts," disclosed a BJP leader who requested anonymity. This territorial allocation recognizes OPS's continued influence in these regions despite his expulsion from the AIADMK.
Background of the Political Outreach
The BJP's outreach comes against the backdrop of AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami's firm refusal to consider OPS's reinduction into the parent party. This impasse has created an opportunity for the BJP to broker a new political arrangement that could strengthen the NDA's position in Tamil Nadu.
When questioned about the ongoing negotiations, BJP state president Nainar Nagenthran maintained diplomatic silence regarding the specific proposal but reiterated his party's consistent position. "I have been emphasizing for months that all factions of the AIADMK should unite for the greater good of Tamil Nadu's political landscape," Nagenthran told reporters on Wednesday.
AMMK's Welcoming Stance and OPS's Deliberation
AMMK general secretary TTV Dhinakaran expressed optimism about the potential alliance earlier this week, stating he "hoped OPS would join NDA eventually." Dhinakaran emphasized the historical significance of the moment, noting that "O Panneerselvam, who served as chief minister three times under the AIADMK banner, has now reached a juncture where he could repay his debt of gratitude to the party through this unification effort."
OPS himself acknowledged the importance of consolidation during his interaction with journalists. "The paramount demand in today's political scenario is that all fragmented forces of the AIADMK should reunite. This unification remains my fundamental demand as well," stated the former chief minister.
Strategic Importance and Community Influence
Ayyappan P, the Usilampatti MLA and staunch OPS supporter, highlighted the strategic value of their leader's participation in any alliance. Speaking exclusively, Ayyappan emphasized, "Our support base is essential for the AIADMK camp to regain its political footing in Tamil Nadu." He further elaborated that OPS's political influence extends well beyond the mukkulathor community, making his involvement crucial for electoral success in multiple regions.
The proposal places OPS at a critical decision-making crossroads. While he has summoned his supporters for a crucial meeting on Thursday morning and promised to announce his decision later that day, BJP sources confirm that the final choice rests entirely with the veteran leader. As of Wednesday evening, OPS had not publicly responded to the BJP's offer, maintaining suspense about Tamil Nadu's evolving political equations.
This development represents a calculated move by the BJP to strengthen its southern footprint while attempting to unify opposition forces against the ruling DMK government. The outcome of Thursday's announcement could significantly reshape alliance dynamics ahead of the 2026 assembly elections, potentially creating a more formidable opposition coalition in India's southernmost state.
