Heavyweights lead BJP’s charge: Annamalai absent, Dr. Tamilisai and L Murugan named in TN candidate list

CHENNAI: The BJP has officially released its list of 27 candidates for the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. Contesting in alliance with the AIADMK, the BJP has been allotted 27 seats under the NDA seat-sharing agreement. Notably, Annamalai, the former State President and a prominent face of the party in Tamil Nadu, did not appear on this initial list.

The candidate selection reflects a diverse mix, featuring women and professionals from various sectors. Key highlights include:

• Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan: The former Union Minister and senior leader will contest from Mylapore, the party’s sole seat in the capital city.
• Vanathi Srinivasan: The BJP National Mahila Morcha President and former MLA will contest from the Coimbatore (North) constituency.
• Dr. L. Murugan: The former Union Minister has been fielded from the Avinashi constituency.

Through this strategic selection, the BJP aims to establish itself as a formidable third force in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape, challenging the long-standing dominance of the DMK and AIADMK.

Annamalai’s response

Following the announcement, Annamalai took to X (formerly Twitter) to congratulate the nominees:

"Hearty congratulations to all the BJP candidates announced for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. They carry the support of every brother and sister in Tamil Nadu who is tired of corruption, complacency, and the DMK's betrayal.

Under the visionary leadership of Hon. PM Narendra Modi, India has moved forward with strength, scale, and purpose. While the nation progresses, Tamil Nadu has been held back by a failed, arrogant, and self-serving DMK government."