Tamil Nadu Ex-CM OPS Quits NDA, His Meeting With Stalin Sparks Buzz | Politics News

Last Updated:July 31, 2025, 22:03 IST

Former Tamil Nadu CM O Panneerselvam calls on CM M.K. Stalin, in Chennai. (Photo/DMK)

Former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and expelled AIADMK leader O Panneerselvam (popularly known as OPS) on Thursday announced his faction’s decision to break away from the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA)- just hours after meeting Chief Minister MK Stalin during the latter’s routine morning walk. OPS, once a key figure in the AIADMK and a longtime BJP ally, had formed his own faction following a bitter leadership tussle within the party.

In the lead-up to the decision, OPS had written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his recent visit to Gangaikonda Cholapuram, saying it would be his “singular honour” to meet him. But with no appointment granted, OPS publicly criticised the Centre over delays in disbursing Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) funds- a move seen as a signal of growing rift.

Read more: After Not Being Able To Meet PM Modi During Tamil Nadu Visit, OPS Exits NDA

OPS Faction Splits With NDA

The formal announcement came from Panruti S Ramachandran, OPS’s longtime aide and former minister, who confirmed the split, saying, “We are breaking the alliance with NDA.” He added that OPS would launch a state-wide tour ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.

“At present, there is no alliance with any party. In the future, we will take a call on alliance closer to the elections,” he said.

What Next For OPS?

OPS, who was present at the press briefing, did not rule out a potential alliance with actor Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). Asked about the possibility, he said, “Time will tell,” adding there was still time before the elections.

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