📷 Image Credits: ThePrint
In recent news, former Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief, Tamilisai Soundararajan, has addressed the speculation surrounding a video clip of a conversation between Union Home Minister Amit Shah and herself during Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s swearing-in ceremony on June 12. The video led to rumors that Shah was admonishing her for comments on the Tamil Nadu BJP chief, K. Annamalai. Soundararajan returned to Chennai on June 12 and initially remained silent about the incident. However, she took to social media on June 13 to clarify that Shah was inquiring about post-election follow-up and challenges faced, giving reassurance and advice on political and constituency work.
The conversation between Soundararajan and Shah triggered speculations amidst ongoing feuds within the BJP’s Tamil Nadu unit following the party’s failure to secure any seats in Tamil Nadu. Soundararajan’s remarks on the BJP’s alliance strategy and her concerns about the influx of individuals with criminal backgrounds within the party have sparked controversy. While her comments were primarily directed towards Annamalai, the latter has chosen not to respond directly. Instead, he reaffirmed his commitment to the party’s directives from the high command when questioned.
The video clip showing Shah’s interaction with Soundararajan went viral on social media, with interpretations suggesting admonishment. Some associate the incident with internal friction within the Tamil Nadu BJP, particularly between Soundararajan and BJP state president Annamalai. Amidst the turmoil, political rivals like the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) criticized the BJP for the perceived disrespect towards a female politician. The outcomes of the recent Lok Sabha elections have further intensified issues within the party, leading to blame games and dissatisfaction among party workers. AIADMK also voiced dissatisfaction, holding Annamalai responsible for the poor performance. As tensions escalate and uncertainties linger within the Tamil Nadu BJP, the aftermath of this incident remains a subject of concern.
