Annamalai Quits BJP, Wants Way Out Of Cult Politics, To Start New Party

In a social media address, he said, “I have great respect for PM Modi,” and added that he had stepped down in a “dignified manner”. “From today onwards, a new path, a new movement; a new political movement,” he said.

Batting for “inclusive politics,” he said everybody should be utilised for TN's growth. “We should come out of cult politics, establish common man politics,” he asserted.

The BJP said the resignation was accepted by its national president Nitin Nabin. In a statement, party general secretary Arun Singh confirmed that Annamalai had quit the party’s primary membership.

Annamalai said he had been in discussions with the party leadership over differences for about 18 months and had conveyed his intention to resign in December 2025. He said he continued in the role at the direction of the leadership to complete Assembly election-related work.

He said the proposed political platform would focus on “inclusive politics” and require time to build leadership and cadre base.

Annamalai, known for his aggressive political style, had led the BJP in Tamil Nadu and frequently targeted Dravidian parties, including the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam. His remarks on issues related to leaders such as J Jayalalithaa and C N Annadurai had drawn criticism.

The All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam had earlier snapped ties with the BJP in September 2023 before the alliance was revived later. Nainar Nagenthran was appointed state BJP chief in April 2025, replacing Annamalai.

Reacting to the development, Nagenthran said the party would not be affected by the resignation. “There will be no loss to the BJP due to his (Annamalai's) resignation. There won't be any setback to the BJP, which is the biggest party in the world. The party will remain steadfast on its ideology,” he said.

Responding to the announcement of a new party, he said individuals were free to form political organisations in a democracy.

M M Abdullah alleged that Annamalai would remain aligned with the BJP, while Durai Vaiko welcomed the move and wished him success.

Annamalai had recently met Union home minister Amit Shah in New Delhi amid speculation over his resignation and plans to launch a new political outfit.