Lagatar24 Desk
Chennai: Union Home Minister Amit Shah has firmly dismissed rumours about the removal of Tamil Nadu BJP president K Annamalai, clarifying that he continues to hold the post despite reports suggesting otherwise.
Shah’s remarks came during a press conference on Friday, where the BJP officially announced the renewal of its alliance with the AIADMK ahead of the upcoming elections.
Annamalai Still Tamil Nadu BJP President: Amit Shah
Responding to a question on whether Annamalai was removed to please AIADMK chief Edappadi K Palaniswami, Shah said with a smile, “This is not true at all. Mr Annamalai is the state president even today.” Pointing to Annamalai seated beside him, Shah added, “That is why he is sitting with me.”
AIADMK Allegedly Wanted Annamalai Removed Before Tie-Up
Reports had claimed that AIADMK was unwilling to proceed with the BJP alliance unless Annamalai was replaced, citing his criticism of senior AIADMK leaders. However, Shah dismissed such conditions, saying, “Leave a few things to our party as well. Don’t worry about my party so much, we will run it well.”
Nainar Nagendran Set To Be New State BJP President
While Annamalai’s term is set to end, BJP received only one nomination for the post of Tamil Nadu state president — from Tirunelveli MLA Nainar Nagendran — making his unopposed appointment certain. Annamalai himself proposed Nagendran’s name.
Annamalai’s Future Role At National Level
Shah praised Annamalai’s contributions, hinting at a bigger role for him in the party’s national framework. “Annamalai Ji’s organisational skills will be utilised at the national level,” Shah wrote on X.
Background Of The Controversy
Sources claim that AIADMK viewed Annamalai as a challenge to its leadership within the alliance, especially after his criticism of their leaders. Appointed in 2021, Annamalai is credited with increasing the BJP’s visibility in Tamil Nadu, though electoral gains remain limited.
