Former Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president K. Annamalai has stepped down from his role as election tour in-charge for multiple Assembly constituencies ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.
Annamalai cited his father’s deteriorating health and the inability to undertake extensive travel as the reason for his decision.
Resignation Communicated to Party Leadership
Annamalai formally informed Tamil Nadu BJP president Nainar Nagendran of his decision to relinquish responsibility for election coordination in six Assembly constituencies.
Party sources said the state leadership accepted his request, and alternative in-charges for the constituencies will be announced shortly.
Reason Cited: Family Health Concerns
According to party insiders, Annamalai explained that his father’s health condition requires his presence and limits his ability to travel continuously across constituencies during the campaign period.
The decision was communicated as a personal and temporary constraint rather than a political or organisational disagreement.
Commitment to BJP and NDA Reiterated
Despite stepping down from the specific role, Annamalai reaffirmed his commitment to the BJP and the NDA alliance in Tamil Nadu.
He conveyed that he remains available to campaign, coordinate, or take up any responsibility assigned by the party leadership, including support for alliance partners such as the AIADMK.
Speculation on Internal Dynamics
Following the announcement, speculation surfaced on social media regarding possible internal tensions within the party’s state unit.
However, neither Annamalai nor the BJP high command has issued any statement suggesting internal discord. Party leaders have maintained that the decision was based solely on personal circumstances.
Political Background
Annamalai, a former IPS officer, served as Tamil Nadu BJP president during a crucial phase of organisational expansion and alliance negotiations in the state.
His role in election strategy and grassroots mobilisation has been considered significant as the party prepares for the 2026 Assembly polls.
Next Steps
The Tamil Nadu BJP is expected to announce new election in-charges for the affected constituencies in the coming days as preparations for the polls continue.
Party leaders have indicated that Annamalai will continue to play a role in the campaign depending on his availability.
