Chennai: Amidst the buzz of former state chief K Annamalai quitting the BJP, cadres from the party, particularly the Yuva Morcha members, on Wednesday demanded the party high command officially clarify the position and avert confusion and possible exodus from the BJP.
Backing the former state president's stance on charting his own political course outside the BJP, Annamalai's supporters put up posters in Madurai showing the former president holding hands with actors Rajinikanth and Ajith.
"After rumours surrounding the exit of Annamalai, the BJP appears to be facing confusion among cadres and supporters. Many are concerned, and some are even considering distancing themselves from the party," BJP Yuva Morcha state secretary R Yogesh said. The party leadership should take swift steps to reassure the cadres at this crucial juncture, he said.
Read More: K Annamalai holds talks with BJP brass; leaders ask him to pause exit plans
"As state president, Nainar Nagenthran should address our workers through a video message or an official letter, clarifying the situation and boosting the morale of party workers," Yogesh said on 'X'. A clear communication from the leadership can prevent misinformation, restore confidence, and keep the cadre united and focused on the larger goal, he added.
As the suspicion of Annamalai's decision to resign grew, the BJP fishermen's wing state president, M C Munusamy, resigned from the party.
On June 2, Annamalai met party senior leader and Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the national capital amidst speculation of quitting the party. Though it was not officially made known what transpired during the 30-minute meeting between them, party sources indicated that Annamalai has been asked to put on hold his resignation plans for now.
He has been sulking since he was replaced by Nainar Nagenthran, and the party revived its electoral ties with the AIADMK for the 2026 Assembly election. During his tenure as president, he unsuccessfully contested the 2021 Assembly election. He chose not to contest in the recently held election but devoted his attention to campaigning for the party.
Read More: Annamalai set to exit BJP soon, may launch new political party after Delhi meetings: Report
On the speculation over floating a new outfit, Annamalai told reporters before leaving for Delhi that he would answer all the questions and explain his stand in two days.
"Please wait. We will sit down and talk in two days," he told reporters at the airport here.
