Former BJP state chief says decision was personal, not ticket denial
April 4, 2026: Former Tamil Nadu BJP president K. Annamalai on Friday clarified that his absence from the party’s candidate list for the upcoming Assembly elections was a personal choice, dismissing speculation about internal differences. Speaking in Chennai, he said he had informed the party’s core committee in advance and even submitted his decision in writing, stressing that he had no intention of contesting any seat.
The clarification came after discussions erupted following the BJP’s candidate announcement. Annamalai said there was no question of being denied a ticket, adding that the situation had been misinterpreted. Union Minister Piyush Goyal also confirmed that Annamalai chose to focus on campaigning rather than contesting from a constituency.
Despite staying out of the electoral fray, Annamalai reaffirmed his commitment to the BJP’s campaign, vowing to work alongside NDA candidates to strengthen the party’s prospects. Praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, he said he would continue active outreach efforts across states, including recent campaigning in Kerala, as the party gears up for the crucial Tamil Nadu elections.