National Desk
12 April
Sandeep Dhand
Journalist Research Analysist
In a major political development, the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have officially announced their alliance for the upcoming 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah confirmed the alliance during a press conference held in the presence of AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami and former BJP Tamil Nadu chief K. Annamalai. Shah declared that the 2026 elections in Tamil Nadu would be contested under the leadership of Palaniswami, with support from Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Centre.
Speaking at the event, Shah said, “AIADMK and BJP have decided to contest the next elections together. This is not the first time; since 1998, AIADMK has been a part of alliances with BJP at various times.” He added that both parties would work together to provide good governance to the people of Tamil Nadu.
Shah also remembered the contributions of the late former Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa and her efforts to strengthen Centre-State relations. He said that PM Modi and Jayalalithaa had worked closely in the past, and this alliance continues that legacy.
Edappadi K. Palaniswami, the AIADMK chief, expressed confidence in the alliance and said the partnership with BJP would help bring development and stability to Tamil Nadu. The leaders also highlighted their commitment to addressing state issues like job creation, infrastructure, and welfare schemes.
This alliance marks a significant shift in Tamil Nadu politics, as the state heads towards a crucial election. With AIADMK’s strong base and BJP’s national support, the two parties aim to present a powerful challenge to the ruling DMK in 2026.