AIADMK–BJP Alliance Creates Political Tension for CM Stalin Ahead of 2026 Elections
As Tamil Nadu heads toward the 2026 Assembly elections, Chief Minister M. K. Stalin, who once confidently claimed that the DMK alliance would win over 200 seats, now faces unexpected political tension. The renewed alliance between the AIADMK and the BJP, confirmed by recent political developments, has become a cause for concern in the DMK camp.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s recent visit to Tamil Nadu was a turning point that reaffirmed the AIADMK–BJP alliance. According to reports, the two parties have agreed that the BJP will lead at the national level while the AIADMK will lead in Tamil Nadu. This new understanding has invigorated party workers and leaders from both sides, boosting their morale.
The formation of a strong opposition front against the DMK has shifted the political narrative. Efforts have already begun to bring more parties into this alliance, increasing the possibility of a broader coalition that could challenge the DMK’s dominance in the state.
CM Stalin’s consistent references to the AIADMK–BJP alliance in official events, party meetings, and even personal functions are being interpreted by critics as a sign of political anxiety. His response to AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami’s visit to Delhi — which he raised as a point of discussion in the Assembly — brought the issue to wider public attention, indicating the unease within the ruling party.
While the DMK ministers have been indirectly critical of the AIADMK–BJP alliance, EPS (Palaniswami) hit back, saying, “Why should it bother you whom we ally with?” This sharp response reflects the growing confidence of the AIADMK leadership.
The Chief Minister’s attempt to question whether the BJP can be forced to scrap the NEET exam in exchange for an alliance also boomeranged. The DMK, which promised to abolish NEET upon coming to power, is now being accused of failing to take meaningful steps in that direction. Critics argue that turning to the AIADMK on this issue is both ironic and politically ineffective.
While the DMK continues to paint the AIADMK as submissive to the BJP and attempts to implant this image in public perception, these efforts seem to be losing traction. The DMK’s continuous focus on this alliance in all forums is seen by political observers as a sign that the alliance has successfully shaken Stalin’s earlier confidence.
On the ground, increasing public dissatisfaction over rising crime, drug abuse, inflation, and women’s safety concerns are adding to the DMK’s challenges. Many political analysts believe that the timing of the AIADMK–BJP alliance is ideal to tap into this growing unrest and present a viable alternative to the ruling party.
