On April 11, 2025, Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced the revival of the alliance between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) during a press conference in Chennai. This strategic partnership aims to contest the upcoming 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections under the banner of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Shah emphasized that the alliance would be beneficial for both parties, stating, "AIADMK has no conditions and demands. We will not interfere in the internal matters of the AIADMK. This alliance is going to be beneficial to both the NDA and AIADMK."
The announcement comes after a turbulent period for the AIADMK, which had exited the NDA in September 2023, citing dissatisfaction with the coalition's direction and leadership, particularly criticizing BJP Tamil Nadu president K Annamalai for his derogatory remarks about AIADMK leaders. Shah, flanked by AIADMK chief Edappadi K. Palaniswami and former BJP Tamil Nadu chief K. Annamalai, expressed confidence that the alliance would restore the parties' fortunes in Tamil Nadu, a state where the BJP has historically struggled to gain a foothold.
Shah stated that the Tamil Nadu assembly elections will be contested under the leadership of Edappadi K. Palaniswami, who serves as the AIADMK general secretary and former chief minister. He referred to the partnership as a "natural alliance," recalling the historical collaboration between the BJP and the AIADMK, which dates back to 1998 when they first joined forces.
In his remarks, Shah reassured that the BJP would not meddle in the internal affairs of the AIADMK regarding the inclusion of expelled leaders like O. Panneerselvam and AMMK leader TTV Dhinakaran in the alliance. "Let us also do work. You (the press) don't worry... Leave some for us to handle," he quipped, indicating a desire for a united front heading into the elections.
The renewed partnership is seen as a crucial step for both parties as they prepare to face the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government, which has been in power since the 2021 elections. The DMK-Congress alliance emerged victorious in the last three major elections in Tamil Nadu, including the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, where the DMK and its allies secured all 39 seats, leaving the AIADMK and BJP with no representation.
Political analysts suggest that the BJP's decision to reestablish ties with the AIADMK reflects a recognition of its limited appeal in Tamil Nadu. The BJP's vote share in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections was a mere 11.24%, while its allies, such as the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) and Tamil Maanila Congress, managed only 7.04%. The NDA coalition came in second in 12 out of 39 constituencies, indicating a need for a stronger alliance to challenge the DMK's dominance.
Shah's announcement also highlighted the issues that the alliance would focus on during their campaign, including corruption, law and order, women's safety, Dalit rights, and education. This agenda aims to resonate with voters who are increasingly concerned about these pressing issues.
The political landscape in Tamil Nadu has been characterized by frequent shifts in alliances and party fortunes. The AIADMK's previous exit from the NDA was a significant moment, underscoring internal divisions and dissatisfaction with the BJP's leadership in the state. Shah's recent visit to meet AIADMK leaders in Delhi was seen as a precursor to the announcement, signaling a renewed commitment to collaboration.
As the 2026 elections approach, the BJP and AIADMK are hopeful that their renewed partnership will enable them to capitalize on anti-incumbency sentiments against the ruling DMK. The AIADMK, once a dominant force in Tamil Nadu politics, is eager to regain its footing after a series of electoral defeats. Shah's confidence in the alliance's potential reflects a broader strategy to consolidate power in a state that has historically resisted the BJP's influence.
In conclusion, the revival of the BJP-AIADMK alliance marks a pivotal moment in Tamil Nadu's political arena, as both parties seek to unify their efforts against the DMK. With Edappadi K. Palaniswami at the helm and a clear agenda in place, the NDA coalition aims to make a significant impact in the upcoming assembly elections, setting the stage for a competitive political battle in 2026.
