Annamalai Unveils New Political Roadmap, Says 'We The Leaders' Will Become Party by 2031

Former Tamil Nadu BJP president K. Annamalai on Sunday announced that his voluntary movement, "We The Leaders," will eventually become a political party and contest the 2031 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections , marking his first major public appearance since quitting the BJP.

Addressing the foundation's first conference in Pollachi, Annamalai said the movement had enrolled over 19 lakh members in 38 days and expressed confidence that reaching 50 lakh members would indicate public support for launching the party. He said the proposed outfit would pursue "healthy politics" focused on public service rather than the pursuit of power.

In a significant shift from his confrontational style as a BJP leader, Annamalai adopted a conciliatory tone towards the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government. He noted that many TVK legislators and ministers were first-time representatives who should be supported when they falter instead of being criticised relentlessly.

Stressing inclusive politics , Annamalai said he was both a proud Indian and a proud Tamilian, arguing that the two identities complement each other. Calling himself a practising Hindu, he said religion and caste should remain personal matters and should not dominate public life, adding that caste- and religion-centric politics had run their course.

The conference centred on an anti-drug campaign , adopting six resolutions seeking stricter action against drug abuse and illegal liquor sales, including the closure of liquor outlets near educational institutions, places of worship and bus terminals. Students also took an anti-drug pledge.

Annamalai also flagged Tamil Nadu's rising public debt , alleging continued heavy borrowing under the TVK government. Defending the government's decision on Inam lands in Karur, he maintained that it did not affect temple properties.

Political observers view Annamalai's roadmap as an attempt to create a new political space by combining nationalism with Tamil identity, governance reforms and youth participation, potentially reshaping Tamil Nadu's political landscape ahead of the 2031 Assembly polls .