A fresh political flashpoint has emerged in Tamil Nadu following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Rameswaram, with sharp exchanges between Tamil Nadu BJP President K. Annamalai and Chief Minister MK Stalin over issues ranging from protocol politics to the plight of arrested fishermen.
🔵 Annamalai Criticizes Stalin’s Absence
BJP state chief K. Annamalai expressed disappointment that CM Stalin did not personally welcome the Prime Minister during his visit to Rameswaram, suggesting it was a politically motivated decision.
“It is disappointing that Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin did not reach Rameswaram to welcome PM Modi. The PM had dedicated ₹8,300 crore to projects for the people of Tamil Nadu,” – K. Annamalai
Annamalai also underscored the release of 14 Tamil Nadu fishermen from Sri Lankan custody, attributing it to Modi’s diplomatic efforts, and expressed hope that the remaining detained fishermen would also be freed soon.
🟠 Leadership Speculation & Ideological Loyalty
Amid rumors of an upcoming leadership change within Tamil Nadu BJP, Annamalai brushed off concerns, stating that his commitment lies with PM Modi rather than holding a particular post.
“I joined the BJP by looking at PM Modi, not at ideology. Being a state president is just a position… I will be on the ground exposing DMK’s corruption.”
He also noted that he has been standing barefoot for four months as a symbolic protest aimed at “dethroning the DMK.”
🔴 Stalin Hits Back, Accuses Centre of Neglect
In a strong counterattack, CM MK Stalin accused the Union government of ignoring Tamil Nadu’s repeated requests to press Sri Lanka on the arrest and release of Indian fishermen.
“We passed a resolution urging PM Modi to raise the fishermen issue during his Sri Lanka visit. But the fishermen have not reached their homeland. The Centre is neglecting our demands,” – MK Stalin
The CM reiterated Tamil Nadu’s demand for:
- Retrieval of Katchatheevu island
- Release of detained fishermen
- Return of confiscated boats
⚓ New Initiatives by TN Government
To provide long-term relief and livelihood support for fishermen, Stalin announced:
- A ₹150 crore fishing port at Thangachimadam in the Gulf of Mannar.
- The port aims to boost deep-sea fishing in southern waters and reduce dependence on contested zones.
This escalating DMK vs BJP showdown over protocol and Tamil fishermen’s fate reflects deeper tensions ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, with both sides seeking to strengthen their political ground among coastal communities.