Tamil Nadu BJP's troubles mount as another senior leader quits after Annamalai

CHENNAI: Another senior BJP leader, Tamil Nadu BJP state secretary Sumathi Venkatesh, quit the party on Friday, following the exit of former state unit president K Annamalai and state vice-president Karu Nagarajan. Stating that the decision was taken after careful consideration and “hevay heart”, she has decided to conclude her participation with the party.

"With a heavy heart, I have decided to step down from my responsibilities as State Secretary of the Bharatiya Janata Party, Tamil Nadu, and conclude my association with the party. It has been a matter of great pride and privilege to serve the party," she said in a statement.



Venkatesh expressed gratitude to BJP leaders, office-bearers and karyakartas at both the state and national levels for their support during her tenure. While stepping away from the party, she said she would continue to be inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership and the BJP's ideals of nationalism, patriotism and public service.

"This decision has come after careful thought and is not without sadness," she said, requesting that her resignation be accepted and that she be relieved of her responsibilities.

Venkatesh's departure comes after former Tamil Nadu BJP president K Annamalai resigned from the party and announced plans to launch a new political movement centred on what he described as "common man politics". The former IPS officer said his proposed platform would reject personality cults, sycophancy and dynastic politics while encouraging greater participation from ordinary citizens and professionals.

The BJP has lost another senior functionary, with state vice-president Karu Nagarajan announcing his resignation to support Annamalai's political venture.

"I don't wish to fault any leader... we have decided to support Annamalai, who is an energetic and bold leader," Nagarajan said.

Soon after Annamalai's announcement, BJP Yuva Morcha state legal convener Abhilash Gopinath also quit the party, citing his faith in Annamalai's leadership and vision.

According to the movement’s website, more than 8 lakh people have already enrolled as volunteers through his outreach platform as he prepares for his next political move. However, Venkatesh has not indicated whether she will join Annamalai's proposed outfit or chart an independent political course.