CHENNAI: AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami (EPS) has categorically ruled out the possibility of re-inducting former Chief Minister O Panneerselvam, making a definitive statement after meeting Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi, effectively shutting the door on the expelled leader.

Disappointed by a categorical statement after meeting the BJP top strategist, OPS has been left with limited options: either ally with the actor Vijay-led fledgling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) or join the DMK-led front.

The only solace the former Chief Minister could find was that the BJP was persistently asking him to rejoin the NDA. After taking a grand stand last month, announcing his intention to influence the 2026 elections to defeat Edappadi K Palaniswami, O Panneerselvam would find it hard to accept the offer to join the same alliance led by EPS.

Panneerselvam has been discussing his next move with supporters, including former ministers. Discussions reportedly focused on potential alliances. Some aides advocate for joining the TVK, while others favour a DMK.

O Panneerselvam is expected to announce his next course of political action on his birthday, January 14th.

After suffering 'humiliation' at the hands of the NDA, Panneerselvam's supporters don't want him to return to the same front; instead, they prefer TVK or DMK.

Expelled from the AIADMK, Panneerselvam's independent journey has turned listless of late.

After contesting and losing the Ramanathapuram seat in the last Lok Sabha elections as part of the NDA, he exited the alliance, citing a lack of respect.

He subsequently set a deadline for EPS to decide on his re-entry into the AIADMK, which passed without action.