Chennai: Union Home Minister Amit Shah has made a definitive statement that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will form the government in Tamil Nadu after the 2026 assembly elections, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) playing a significant role in the coalition. In a recent interview to a Tamil Newspaper “Daily Thanthi”, Shah expressed confidence about the alliance’s prospects, stating the NDA is in a “very strong position” in the state. While maintaining that the AIADMK would lead the coalition, Shah notably said BJP will be part in the coalition government.
“NDA Will Form TN Govt in 2026”: Shah’s Decisive Claim
The declaration has created political ripples as it directly contradicts the AIADMK’s consistent public stance against any power-sharing arrangement. The regional party has repeatedly asserted it will form the government on its own strength, setting the stage for potential friction between the allies as elections approach.
The Home Minister’s remarks have put the AIADMK leadership in a difficult position. While the party has publicly denied any possibility of a coalition government, Shah has repeatedly asserted that only an NDA government will be formed in 2026.
Navigating Contentious Issues
When questioned about controversial topics, Shah adopted carefully calibrated positions. Regarding actor-politician Vijay’s potential entry into the NDA fold, he offered an evasive response: “Everything will become clear in time.” On the sensitive matter of retrieving Katchatheevu island from Sri Lanka, the Home Minister emphasized working “through international procedures” rather than making dramatic promises.
Shah also addressed the recent controversy surrounding a Hindu Munnani event in Madurai where Dravidian icons Periyar and Annadurai were criticized. Seeking to distance the BJP from the incident, Shah clarified that the event was organized by the Hindu group and not his party.