As political currents begin to shift in Tamil Nadu, Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s upcoming visit to Chennai has stirred fresh speculation and interest. Confirmed by top sources, Shah is expected to arrive in the city between the evening of April 10 and the next day, April 11. While the details of his visit remain tentative, he is slated to meet S. Gurumurthy, editor of Thuglak, a known voice in both political and ideological circles.
The timing of this visit has not gone unnoticed. It follows closely on the heels of a significant meeting in New Delhi between Shah and AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami. That encounter has reignited talk of a possible alliance between the BJP and the AIADMK ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections—a prospect that many observers see as a strategic move to consolidate opposition forces in the state.
Adding another layer to the political puzzle, BJP State president K. Annamalai recently announced that he would not lead the party into the 2026 election. His decision, while surprising to some, has also opened the door for renewed strategies and leadership within the party’s Tamil Nadu unit. In political circles, there is an understanding that any successful bid to challenge the ruling DMK will require unity, clarity, and a strong, credible alternative.
Within the BJP, there is a growing sentiment that aligning with the AIADMK is essential before exploring any further alliances with other parties such as the PMK or NTK. Party insiders suggest that the focus now is on leveraging public discontent and providing a realistic political option to voters who may be looking for change.
While the final picture of alliances and leadership is still emerging, Shah’s visit is being seen as more than a routine political tour. It is a moment that could shape the direction of opposition politics in Tamil Nadu, carrying with it the hopes and calculations of parties seeking to reconfigure the state’s political landscape. For now, eyes remain fixed on Chennai, where every handshake and conversation could signal a turning point.
