Chennai: In a significant development ahead of the Tamil Nadu assembly elections, Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK), led by T.T.V. Dhinakaran, has rejoined the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced that this reunion has strengthened the NDA under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. Dhinakaran, expressing his happiness to return to the NDA, pledged to work towards unseating the DMK from power.

The formal re-entry was marked by a meeting between Dhinakaran and Union Minister Piyush Goyal, who is also in charge of BJP's election coordination in Tamil Nadu. Goyal welcomed Dhinakaran's decision, recalling his association with Dhinakaran's father, Ved Prakash Goyal, and emphasized the NDA's commitment to removing the "corrupt and incompetent DMK government". He stated that the NDA is united in its mission to protect the people, culture, and pride of Tamil Nadu.

Dhinakaran stated that the decision to rejoin the NDA was made in the interest of Tamil Nadu and to bring back "Amma's rule" in the state. He affirmed that AMMK functionaries would work tirelessly for the victory of the NDA in the upcoming elections. "Setting aside our past differences and keeping the welfare of the people of Tamil Nadu in mind, we have wholeheartedly joined the NDA to unseat the DMK from power," Dhinakaran said.

AIADMK General Secretary and former Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami (EPS) welcomed Dhinakaran's entry into the NDA. This gesture signals a show of unity within the NDA camp as preparations intensify for the upcoming elections. However, it's worth noting that only BJP leaders were present during the event, with no AIADMK leaders participating in welcoming Dhinakaran into the alliance.

The AMMK had previously exited the NDA on September 3, citing persistent neglect after the BJP revived ties with the AIADMK in April 2025. Dhinakaran had also previously declared that he would not endorse Palaniswami for the Chief Minister's post. However, he has now softened his stance, stating that "those who compromise will not be ruined".

Political observers view AMMK's return as an attempt by the NDA to consolidate anti-DMK votes and present a more cohesive opposition front. The NDA aims to provide good leadership, governance, and social welfare for the people of Tamil Nadu, while also promoting the Tamil language, pride, and culture.

The alliance is stepping up its attack against the ruling DMK, accusing the state government of failing to control drug abuse and allowing law and order to deteriorate. The number of seats to be allocated to the AMMK in the upcoming Assembly elections will be decided soon. Talks are also reportedly underway to accommodate O Panneerselvam along with the AMMK.

Dhinakaran is expected to attend Prime Minister Narendra Modi's public meeting in Chennai on January 23, where he will mobilize party workers as a demonstration of strength following the alliance. Amit Shah asserted that the people of Tamil Nadu are ready to "bless" the NDA in the upcoming polls to take the state to newer heights of development and prosperity.