Chennai/IBNS, April 4 -- The absence of K. Annamalai from the candidate list of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Tamil Nadu has sparked speculation over the former state unit chief's current role within the party.

The BJP is contesting 27 seats as part of its alliance with the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), the principal challenger to the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK).

The party released its candidate list on April 3.

What did Annamalai say?

Addressing the media, Annamalai dismissed speculation of being sidelined, asserting that it was his own decision not to contest the upcoming elections.

Annamalai's journey in Tamil Nadu

Annamalai's tenure as BJP's Tamil Nadu chief was marked by high visibility as ...