The Tamil Nadu unit of the BJP experienced a major setback on Friday when two prominent leaders announced their resignations just hours after former state president K. Annamalai stepped down. Both Karuna Nagarajan, the state vice president, and Sumathi Venkatesh, the state secretary, confirmed their exits from the party on the same day. Nagarajan expressed his intention to join Annamalai's new political party.

Nagarajan remarked that Annamalai was unafraid to expose the mistakes of Chief Minister Vijay and others. Reports indicate that he described Annamalai as a courageous and capable leader with extensive knowledge across various sectors. Meanwhile, Venkatesh took to social media to announce her resignation, stating that she made the decision with a heavy heart and is severing ties with the party.

In her post, she expressed pride and honor in serving the party, stating that she has been deeply inspired by the ideals of nationalism, patriotism, and public service promoted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP. These values have guided her throughout her journey and will continue to do so. The resignations followed Annamalai's departure from the BJP, which has ended weeks of speculation regarding his political future. The national president of the BJP, Nitin Nabin, accepted Annamalai's resignation from both primary membership and organizational responsibilities, marking the end of his six-year association with the party.