Huge posters put up in Coimbatore suggest that K Annamalai may start a new political movement. Supporters are demanding his leadership.

Coimbatore: Huge posters put up in Coimbatore by supporters of former Tamil Nadu BJP president K Annamalai have fueled political speculation that he may be preparing to launch a new political movement amid reports of growing differences with the BJP leadership.Posters with slogans like “Our leader, come and lead us” have appeared on major roads and streets of the city ahead of Annamalai’s birthday. This development has come at a time when the discussion about his political future has gained momentum in the political circles of Tamil Nadu. BJP sources confirmed that Annamalai is currently in Delhi.Annamalai, a former IPS officer, joined the BJP in 2020 and served as the Tamil Nadu president of the party from 2021 to 2025. During his tenure, he emerged as one of the most prominent faces of the party in the state, leading statewide campaigns and attracting significant support among youth and social media users.Speculation about his next move intensified after the 2026 assembly elections, during which he was not fielded as a candidate in the Coimbatore assembly constituency as per his wish. His recent criticism of the Centre’s decision to push forward the implementation of the three-language policy for Class IX students has also given rise to a political debate.However, BJP leaders rejected suggestions of a split, pointing out that Annamalai’s statewide prominence was built through the party and said they were aware of the fact.Strangely, there is speculation that Annamalai may quit the BJP and contest the anticipated bypoll from Perundurai Assembly constituency, after the sitting AIADMK MLA has resigned. Some observers believe he may seek a more prominent role within the BJP rather than starting a separate political organisation.Rumors of Annamalai forming a new political party have gained momentum since the conclusion of the 2026 assembly elections. However, the former state BJP president has remained silent on the issue so far, neither confirming nor denying the reports, further escalating political speculation about his future move.