Former AIADMK Leader Eyes DMK Alliance for 2026 Tamil Nadu Elections
In a significant political development that could reshape Tamil Nadu's political landscape, former AIADMK coordinator O Panneerselvam is actively considering an alliance with the ruling DMK for the crucial 2026 assembly elections.
According to sources close to the development, OPS has been receiving strong recommendations from his associates to join the DMK-led alliance if his efforts to reunify with the AIADMK fail before the December 15 deadline he has set.
Growing Support for DMK Alignment Among OPS Camp
Several functionaries of OPS's 'AIADMK Cadres Rights Retrieval Committee' have openly expressed their preference for aligning with DMK, with some even submitting written opinions during a meeting held in Chennai last week.
The supporters argue that OPS, given his experience as a three-time chief minister, should not consider joining Vijay's TVK, which they describe as 'politically and electorally untested'.
A Subburathinam, a former MLA and close associate of OPS, stated: "There is nothing wrong in joining DMK, as it follows the principles and ideology of Periyar and Anna, our political ideologues. We are not averse to having an alliance with them if such a situation arises."
Historical Context and Current Political Calculus
Despite AIADMK founder M G Ramachandran and his successor J Jayalalithaa having previously characterized DMK as an "evil force", OPS's supporters believe this sentiment does not apply to the current M K Stalin-led DMK.
Key OPS associates, including his political advisor Panruti S Ramachandran, are reportedly encouraging him to align with the "winning combine led by DMK". This move is widely seen as a strategic counter to AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami, who has remained firm about not re-admitting expelled members.
Supporters have pointed to historical precedents of AIADMK leaders joining the DMK alliance, citing examples such as R M Veerappan and S Thirunavukkarasar.
DMK's Open Door Policy and Political Implications
Currently, seven former AIADMK leaders hold significant portfolios in the Stalin cabinet, including prominent names like EV Velu, KKSSR Ramachandran, S Regupathy, and S Muthusamy.
OPS's visit to Stalin's residence in July, following the chief minister's hospitalization, is considered highly significant by political observers. This visit occurred on the same day OPS severed ties with the BJP, adding to the political symbolism.
DMK sources indicate that anyone aligning with the principles of Dravidian ideology is welcome. A senior DMK leader commented: "We don't reject anyone, especially when they are ideologically strong and add value to the alliance."
The leader added that OPS joining the DMK-led front could potentially split opposition votes, providing an additional advantage to the ruling alliance. Interestingly, OPS recently stated that the DMK front's poll prospects appear bright due to the split in AIADMK and PMK.
As the December 15 deadline for AIADMK unification approaches, all political eyes remain focused on OPS's next move, which could significantly influence Tamil Nadu's political equations ahead of the 2026 assembly elections.
