In a dramatic realignment of Tamil Nadu politics, former Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam (OPS) and his son Ravindranath have formally joined the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK). The move comes after months of speculation following OPS’s bitter fallout with the AIADMK leadership.
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin welcomed OPS and Ravindranath into the DMK fold, describing the crossover as a “historic moment” that strengthens the party ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections. Stalin assured them and their supporters of electoral space and recognition within the ruling party.
OPS, once a loyal lieutenant of late AIADMK supremo J. Jayalalithaa, had been sidelined in the party’s internal power struggles. His decision to join DMK marks a significant political shift, given his decades-long association with AIADMK and his role as interim Chief Minister on multiple occasions.
Ravindranath, who previously served as a Member of Parliament, also pledged his allegiance to DMK, signaling a generational continuation of the family’s political journey under a new banner. Supporters of OPS hailed the move as a fresh start, while critics accused him of opportunism.
Political analysts say the crossover could reshape electoral dynamics in southern districts, where OPS retains influence. The DMK hopes the addition will consolidate its base and weaken AIADMK’s prospects in key constituencies.
The development underscores the fluid nature of Tamil Nadu politics, where alliances and loyalties often shift in response to changing power equations. As the state heads toward the 2026 polls, OPS’s entry into DMK is expected to be one of the most closely watched storylines.
