Annamalai plans secular-regional party with national outlook, redefined Dravidian vision

Former Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai is likely to quit the BJP within the next few days, according to sources.

Annamalai is expected to launch a new political party within six to eight months, positioning it as a secular, regional force with a national outlook.

Annamalai is scheduled to meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP national president Nitin Nabin, and BJP general secretary (organisation) BL Santhosh in Delhi to explain the reasons behind his proposed exit.

Sources say the new party will advocate a redefined version of Dravidian politics, dubbed "Dravidian 2.0," focused on putting Tamil Nadu first while remaining within the broader Indian framework.

The proposed outfit aims to be secular and inclusive, seeking support from all communities, including minorities, while promoting Tamil identity without regional chauvinism.

Annamalai reportedly disagreed with the BJP leadership over its alliance strategy with AIADMK and candidate selection during the recent Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.

Annamalai believes actor-politician Vijay's electoral success has altered Tamil Nadu's political landscape, creating space for new political alternatives beyond the traditional Dravidian parties.

Annamalai reportedly sees an opportunity to emerge as a major political pole by the 2031 Assembly elections, alongside another dominant force in the state.
His supporters claim many experienced politicians from other parties may join him once he is no longer associated with the BJP.

As a precursor to the political party, Annamalai may first launch a social organisation, while efforts are underway to register a new party name or acquire an existing registered one.