BJP Is Not In Alliance With AIADMK, Will Decide Before Polls, Says D Jayakumar

All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) leader D. Jayakumar said Sunday that the party is not currently in an alliance with the BJP, and any decision about an election pact in Tamil Nadu will be made closer to the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.

This came after strong objections regarding the comments made by the state BJP chief, K Annamalai, concerning the late CN Annadurai, the mentor of AIADMK founder MGR.

Senior AIADMK leader D Jayakumar said, "BJP is not in alliance with AIADMK. We will decide about the alliance during the elections only." He went on to criticise Annamalai, asserting that he is unsuitable to serve as the BJP's state president. Jayakumar accused Annamalai of making disparaging remarks about late leaders solely for self-promotion.

Jayakumar also highlighted that when Annamalai had previously made critical comments about AIADMK leaders, including the late J Jayalalithaa, the AIADMK had requested restraint from the BJP leader. He emphasized that the party's members will not tolerate any disrespect towards the late chief minister.

"Annamalai doesn't appear to desire an alliance with AIADMK, despite the wishes of BJP workers. Are we expected to endure this constant criticism of our leaders? Why should we continue to support you? The BJP cannot establish a presence here. Your voter base is well-known. You are recognized because of us," Jayakumar stated during a press conference. He firmly asserted, "We cannot tolerate any further criticism of our leaders."

When asked if these statements reflected his personal opinion, Jayakumar clarified, "Have I ever spoken to you in any capacity other than as a representative of the party? I only convey what the party decides."