Tiruchi, 01 April (H.S.):Intensifying the political rhetoric ahead of the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, Chief Minister M. K. Stalin on Wednesday accused the opposition All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) of compromising the state’s interests by aligning closely with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Addressing a large public gathering in Tiruchy, Stalin mounted a direct attack on AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami, alleging that a victory for the opposition would result in Tamil Nadu’s autonomy being “handed over” to the BJP. He urged voters to decisively back the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA), seeking what he described as a “complete mandate” in all constituencies.
Framing the election as a defining moment for the state’s political future, Stalin said the contest was not merely electoral but ideological — between the Dravidian model of governance and what he termed as external political dominance. He appealed to voters to safeguard Tamil Nadu’s distinct identity and inclusive governance framework.
Highlighting his government’s track record since 2021, Stalin said the DMK administration had honoured most of its electoral commitments while maintaining communal harmony and social justice. He contrasted this with BJP-ruled states, alleging that divisions along caste and religious lines were more prevalent elsewhere.
Continuing his criticism, Stalin accused the BJP of attempting to gain a foothold in Tamil Nadu through the AIADMK. “If the BJP contests alone here, they would secure fewer votes than NOTA. That is why they are relying on the AIADMK,” he said.
He further alleged that the AIADMK was operating under BJP influence, citing an incident at an NDA meeting in Madurai where a portrait of Periyar E. V. Ramasamy was reportedly removed. Stalin questioned whether former leaders like M. G. Ramachandran (MGR) and J. Jayalalithaa would have permitted such actions.
Reiterating his charge, Stalin said key decisions within the alliance were being driven from New Delhi, pointing to remarks by Prime Minister Narendra Modi that, he claimed, stopped short of projecting Palaniswami as the chief ministerial face.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
