The AIADMK has officially severed ties with the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The decision was reached during a significant meeting led by AIADMK's chief, Edappadi K Palaniswami, at the party's headquarters. The party's leadership, including top office-bearers, district secretaries, and elected representatives, participated in the deliberations.
During the announcement, K P Munusamy, a senior AIADMK leader and former minister, stated that the party had collectively resolved to exit the NDA and form a coalition with like-minded parties for the upcoming elections. Notably, the AIADMK's resolution did not explicitly name anyone but expressed concern over the BJP's state leadership allegedly tarnishing the reputation of Dravidian icons such as CN Annadurai and late Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa, as well as criticizing the party's policies, PTI reported.
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The rift between the AIADMK and the BJP had become apparent due to statements made by BJP state president K Annamalai, which had strained the relationship between the two erstwhile allies. Munusamy emphasized that the unanimous decision reflected the sentiments and aspirations of the party's extensive base, which consists of over two crore party workers.
In response to questions from reporters, Munusamy criticized the BJP and its state unit president, Annamalai, for their disparaging remarks about AIADMK leaders, including the late J. Jayalalithaa. He mentioned that despite BJP workers expressing a desire for an alliance with the AIADMK, the party had requested that Annamalai be restrained. Munusamy stated, "Annamalai doesn't desire an alliance with AIADMK, although BJP workers want it. Should we tolerate all this criticism of our leaders? Why should we carry you? BJP can't set foot here. Your vote bank is known. You are known because of us."
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He also clarified the party's stance on alliance possibilities, stating, "We can't tolerate any more criticism of our leaders. As far as the alliance is concerned, it is not there. BJP is not with AIADMK. The matter can be decided only during the election. This is our stand."
