Leadership Shake-Up Looms in Tamil Nadu BJP as Amit Shah Visits State

As Union Home Minister Amit Shah visits Tamil Nadu today, all eyes are on the BJP’s next move in the state, with a major leadership change reportedly on the horizon. Shah’s visit, officially described as part of routine party activities, has gained significance amid speculation over the future of current state BJP president K Annamalai and the role of AIADMK in the NDA alliance.

Shah’s itinerary includes a key closed-door meeting with senior BJP leaders at a private hotel, visits to two prominent temples, and a meeting with RSS ideologue S Gurumurthy — a figure considered influential in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape. The timing of the visit coincides with the opening of nominations for the BJP’s Tamil Nadu state president post, further fuelling speculation.

Annamalai, a former IPS officer who joined the BJP in 2021, had been a high-profile figure for the party in Tamil Nadu, often positioning himself as a strong voice against the ruling DMK and even against its former ally, the AIADMK. However, the alliance dynamics appear to be shifting. Reports suggest that AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) recently met Shah and reportedly urged the BJP high command to remove or curtail Annamalai’s powers to ease tensions between the two parties.

Following this, Annamalai announced he would not contest for the state leadership role, adding weight to the rumours of an impending reshuffle.

Potential names that emerged for the post included Nainar Nagendran, Vanathi Srinivasan, and Tamilisai Soundararajan — the latter having previously served as state BJP chief. However, a party circular outlining eligibility rules states that candidates must have been basic members for at least 10 years. This disqualifies both Annamalai and Nagendran, who joined in 2021 and 2017 respectively, unless the rules are amended.

The meeting between Shah and Gurumurthy is seen as particularly significant. Gurumurthy is known for his behind-the-scenes influence in Tamil Nadu politics — from playing a key role in the AIADMK’s internal reconfigurations to encouraging Rajinikanth’s short-lived political entry. He is also believed to have mentored Annamalai during his political rise.

Annamalai met Gurumurthy a day before Shah’s visit, but sources suggest a firm decision has already been made — to forge a strong NDA alliance in Tamil Nadu, with the AIADMK playing a central role. The BJP’s next state president is expected to reflect this realignment.

IT.