Suspense Deepens Over Tamil Nadu BJP President. New regulations have complicated the selection process. The state unit announced elections before Amit Shah's Chennai visit. A decision is expected within two days.
Chennai BJP President Update: Political activity has intensified regarding the selection of the new BJP president in Tamil Nadu. Current president K. Annamalai has already stated that he is not in the running, leading to speculation about potential successors.
Annamalai's Clear Statement and Discussion of New Names
Following K. Annamalai's withdrawal, Union Minister L. Murugan and MLA Nainar Nagendran emerged as early frontrunners. Murugan benefits from b connections with the AIADMK, while Nagendran, the BJP Legislature Party leader, won the Tirunelveli seat in 2021.
But a Sudden Change of Game – New Rules Introduced
The BJP high command implemented a crucial new rule for the new president: candidates must have at least 10 years of party membership. This rule dealt a blow to Nagendran's prospects, as he joined the BJP from the AIADMK in 2017.
Amit Shah's Chennai Visit and New Equations
The issue was extensively discussed during Union Home Minister Amit Shah's visit to Chennai. His meeting with RSS ideologue Swaminathan Gurumurthy on Friday hinted that the party leadership might favor an RSS-backed candidate.
Who's in the Race Now?
The BJP may announce the new president on April 13th. Names currently circulating include:
Vanathi Srinivasan – an influential leader of the women's wing
Tamilisai Soundararajan – former governor and veteran leader
New faces with RSS backgrounds – the party seems poised for a surprise.
Why is This Decision So Crucial Before the Elections?
Assembly elections are scheduled for next year in Tamil Nadu, currently governed by a DMK-Congress coalition. The BJP is attempting to strengthen its organization. Discussions about a renewed alliance with the AIADMK are also gaining momentum.
Meanwhile, all eyes are on the future moves of Thalapathy Vijay's party, TVK – will they join the NDA, remain in opposition, or form a third front?