Former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam joined the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) on Friday, making a major political move ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in the State.
Panneerselvam, who is popularly known as OPS, was a three-time Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. His decision to join the DMK is seen as a significant change in the State’s political scene. Along with him, his son P. Ravindhranath Kumar also joined the ruling party.
Political sources say that OPS had been in touch with the DMK leadership for several months. There had been speculation about his next move after his differences with the AIADMK leadership in recent years. His joining the DMK now comes at a time when political parties are preparing for the forthcoming Assembly elections.
The move is expected to influence political equations in Tamil Nadu. Analysts believe that OPS’s experience and support base in certain regions could strengthen the DMK’s position in the elections. At the same time, it may affect the opposition’s strategy as parties finalise their alliances and candidates.
With the elections approaching, this development has added fresh momentum to the State’s political activity. More announcements regarding roles and responsibilities within the party are expected in the coming days.