Edappadi Palaniswami's Delhi Visit Fuels Speculation Over AIADMK-BJP Alliance

EPS's visit comes at a time when he appears to be softening his stance on an alliance with the BJP, a significant shift from his earlier opposition.

Adding to the situation, AIADMK whip SP Velumani reportedly flew to Delhi on a separate flight just hours after EPS’s departure.

Source : X

Amid swirling speculation about a possible AIADMK-BJP alliance ahead of 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, AIADMK General Secretary and Leader of the Opposition Edappadi K Palaniswami (EPS) departed for Delhi on Tuesday morning. His sudden visit has intensified political discussions, especially as senior party leaders SP Velumani and P Thangamani are also expected to join him in the national capital later in the day.

Changing Political Stance?

EPS's visit comes at a time when he appears to be softening his stance on an alliance with the BJP, a significant shift from his earlier opposition. Recently, he has emphasised the need to unite anti-DMK votes to challenge the ruling MK Stalin-led INDIA bloc in the upcoming elections, as per a report on DT Next.

It is reported that EPS has secured an appointment with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and he is likely to meet other key BJP leaders and even a former Supreme Court judge. It is said that crucial discussions may be underway regarding electoral strategies.

However, his visit coincides with an ongoing Assembly session in Tamil Nadu which has raised eyebrows.

Adding to the situation, AIADMK whip SP Velumani reportedly flew to Delhi on a separate flight just hours after EPS’s departure. While there were earlier reports that there might be internal rift between Velumani and other leaders under BJP’s influence, his unexpected journey has raised questions about internal dynamics within AIADMK.

The political observers are particularly puzzled by why EPS and Velumani did not travel together, despite their shared agenda. This has led to speculation about strategic maneuvering within AIADMK as it navigates its relationship with the BJP.

With AIADMK’s political future hanging in the balance, all eyes are now on Delhi, where crucial decisions regarding alliances and election strategies may be taking shape.