Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to visit Tamil Nadu on January 4-5, 2026, intensifying preparations for the upcoming Assembly elections. The visit aims to solidify the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) strategy and strengthen its alliance with key regional players like the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK).

Shah's itinerary includes addressing the valedictory function of BJP state chief Nainar Nagenthran's campaign in Pudukkottai on January 4. He will also participate in a "Modi Pongal" event in Tiruchirappalli and visit the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangam on January 5. These events are strategically planned to connect with the local populace and showcase the party's cultural sensitivity.

A core committee meeting in Trichy will allow Shah to review the BJP's election preparedness in Tamil Nadu. The BJP's Tamil Nadu poll panel, led by Union Minister Piyush Goyal, is also expected to visit the state to fine-tune strategies. Preliminary talks between the AIADMK and BJP have already commenced, focusing on a joint campaign and assessing the current political landscape.

The BJP is keen on strengthening its organizational structure in Tamil Nadu. Leaders are being selected based on their organizational skills, understanding of caste dynamics, and electoral experience. The party aims to empower local governance and challenge corruption, connecting directly with voters, especially in rural areas.

The AIADMK and BJP have officially revived their alliance for the 2026 elections. Amit Shah has declared that the coalition will aim to form a government in the state, with AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami leading the alliance. While the AIADMK will coordinate with the BJP in Tamil Nadu, it has clarified that it will not be part of the broader BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) at the national level.

Seat-sharing arrangements and the potential inclusion of other parties, such as O Panneerselvam's faction and TTV Dhinakaran's AMMK, are under discussion. The BJP is expected to seek a significant number of Assembly seats, particularly in areas where it has performed well in previous elections.

The BJP's campaign will focus on issues such as corruption, law and order, and attacks on Dalits and women, while also highlighting the central government's development initiatives in Tamil Nadu. Promoting Tamil culture and language will also be a key aspect of the campaign.

Political analysts suggest that the AIADMK-BJP alliance could garner a substantial vote share in the upcoming elections. However, the DMK-led alliance is also strong, and the entry of actor Vijay into politics adds another dimension to the electoral landscape.

Amit Shah's visit underscores the BJP's commitment to making significant inroads in Tamil Nadu. By addressing party cadres, meeting with alliance partners, and engaging with community leaders, Shah aims to give a concrete shape to the BJP's election strategy and boost the morale of the party.