CHENNAI: BJP state president Nainar Nagenthran on Friday rushed to New Delhi amid mounting speculation over a possible leadership change in the party's state unit following its disappointing performance in the Assembly elections.
The visit assumes significance as it came within hours of the BJP's state core committee meeting, chaired by the party's national general secretary (organisation) BL Santhosh, where senior leaders are learnt to have undertaken a detailed review of the electoral setback, organisational shortcomings and the party's coordination with ally AIADMK.
Soon after the meeting, Nainar Nagenthran left for the national capital and called on Vice President CP Radhakrishnan and BJP national president Nitin Nabin. Sources said he was also attempting to secure an appointment with Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Senior BJP functionaries indicated that the state leadership had come under the scanner after the electoral defeat, triggering renewed discussions within the organisation over the future course of the Tamil Nadu unit.
"The core committee undertook a candid assessment of the defeat, and several organisational issues came up for discussion. There is growing pressure from a section within the party for a leadership change. The central leadership is closely monitoring developments in Tamil Nadu," a senior BJP leader told DT Next.
Speculation has also gained ground over a possible Union Cabinet reshuffle expected in June or July. Party sources said Union Minister L Murugan could face the axe, with discussions under way on accommodating another leader from Tamil Nadu. Within the party, former state unit president K Annamalai's name has emerged prominently in those conversations. His supporters have also intensified efforts for his return to a major organisational role.
At the same time, Nainar is understood to be making a determined attempt to retain the state presidency through direct engagement with the party high command.
Another senior leader noted that while a leadership change remained very much under consideration, the party was unlikely to make an immediate decision. "The leadership is weighing multiple factors, including organisational stability and political messaging," the leader said.