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As the former BJP state president launches a new political platform, Annamalai Makkal Iyakkam, BJP leaders downplay his exit, though party cadres and analysts warn of a loss of youth support.

CHENNAI: K Annamalai's resignation from BJP and the launch of a new political movement would harm the saffron party in TN the most, and the impact would be felt by all other parties - in varying degrees.

Annamalai said his political ambitions extended beyond the framework of BJP and required a broader platform.

, Annamalai announced his exit from the BJP and unveiled "We The Leaders", describing it as the beginning of a new political journey aimed at promoting "common-man politics".

Tamil Nadu news: In his first address after quitting the BJP, K Annamalai announced his plans for a political movement and a party. In the 23-minute-long speech, Annamalai had only one political message. Without naming C Joseph Vijay, Annamalai said just one chief minister cannot bring all the change needed in Tamil Nadu.

After handing in his papers, Annamalai said he was embarking on a new journey aimed at ushering in "common man politics," distancing it from personality-driven politics and rejecting sycophancy and hereditary power.

K Annamalai has officially ended his affiliation with the BJP and has launched an innovative political movement aimed at reshaping Tamil Nadu's landscape. Alongside him are seasoned politicians Karu Nagarajan and Sumathi Venkatesh, who have also stepped away from the BJP to support his cause.

"This decision has come after careful thought and is not without sadness," Tamil Nadu BJP state secretary Sumathi Venkatesh said

Nagarajan and Venkatesh's resignation following K Annamalai's exit from the BJP highlights the internal churn within the state unit.