Tamil Nadu: Possibility Of Annamalai Going Abroad For A Fellowship Programme Triggers Speculation Over Leadership Of State BJP Unit

Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state president K Annamalai was recently selected for the three-month Chevening Gurukul Fellowship for Leadership and Excellence programme in the United Kingdom (UK). He is one among the 12 Indians selected this year.

While it is not confirmed as to whether Annamalai would attend the programme or not, the news has triggered speculations as to what would happen in case he chooses to do so.

Will his tenure as the state president be extended or not and if it is extended, will an acting state president be appointed till the time of his absence are some of the questions being asked.

The programme is scheduled to last from September to December of this year.

A number of BJP members and supporters are also unhappy with the prospect of Annamalai going abroad for such a long duration. They have also asked if he really needs to do such a course, especially at a time when the party is looking to start its preparations for the 2026 Assembly elections.

Some have also asked if this would be a way to sideline Annamalai in the state unit. They have said that the national leadership of the party should not allow him to attend the course.