O. Panneerselvam (OPS), a former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and AIADMK leader, has recently adopted a more critical stance against the central government, marking a significant shift from his previously amicable relationship with the ruling BJP. This change in attitude has sparked speculation about a potential political realignment, with some suggesting that OPS may join forces with actor Vijay's political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).

OPS's recent criticism of the BJP-led Union government centers on the withholding of funds allocated to Tamil Nadu under the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) scheme for the 2024-25 period. He condemned this action as a violation of the Right to Education Act and against the principles of federalism, arguing that it would negatively impact students and teachers in the state. This marks the first time OPS has openly opposed the BJP since his rebellion against V.K. Sasikala, the former interim general secretary of AIADMK, back in 2017.

Several factors appear to be contributing to OPS's change in stance. Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS), the opposition leader and AIADMK general secretary, has seemingly renewed his party's ties with the BJP. EPS has also rejected any possibility of OPS rejoining the AIADMK. Adding to this, OPS was reportedly denied an opportunity to meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his recent visit to Tamil Nadu, which is believed to have upset him.

Sources close to OPS have indicated that his camp is increasingly considering aligning with actor Vijay's TVK. This potential alliance has fueled speculation ahead of the 2026 elections. OPS's advisor, Panrutti S. Ramachandran, has openly suggested that OPS should step out of the BJP's shadow, as it is unwise to remain in an alliance that does not give him due respect.

Vijay, a popular actor in Tamil Nadu, launched his political party, TVK, in February 2024, with the intention of contesting the 2026 elections. TVK's ideology is centered around "Secular Social Justice," supporting social justice, secularism, egalitarianism, a two-language policy, and democracy. At the inaugural conference of TVK, Vijay identified BJP and DMK as ideological and political opponents respectively.

An alliance between OPS and TVK could potentially reshape the political landscape in Tamil Nadu. OPS, despite being expelled from AIADMK, still holds some influence, particularly within the Mukulathor community. TVK, with Vijay's widespread popularity, aims to offer a fresh alternative to the traditional powerhouses in Tamil Nadu politics. The possibility of their alliance hinges on OPS formally severing ties with the BJP, given Vijay's clear anti-BJP stance.