Chennai, 01 May (H.S.): Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK president M. K. Stalin on Friday exuded strong confidence that the ruling party is headed for a decisive mandate, asserting that the outcome on May 4 will mirror the relentless efforts of its grassroots workers.
Speaking at a May Day celebration held at Chintadripet in Chennai, Stalin said the party’s optimism stems from extensive field-level feedback rather than opinion polls. He maintained that the DMK’s campaign had struck a chord with voters across the state, reinforcing his belief in a favourable verdict.
“On May 4, we will see the results of our cadres’ hard work. There is no change in that. I am not basing this on survey findings, but on what I have personally witnessed on the ground,” Stalin said, signalling confidence ahead of the counting day.
Earlier, in his May Day message, Stalin underscored the significance of labour as the driving force behind not only human advancement but also broader political and social evolution. He extended warm greetings to workers, describing them as the backbone of society who sustain and energise the world through their tireless efforts.
Highlighting the Dravidian movement’s legacy, Stalin said leaders like former Chief Ministers C.N. Annadurai and M. Karunanidhi had made significant contributions to labour welfare. These included introducing a paid holiday on May Day, establishing the May Day Park in Chennai, and setting up welfare boards for workers.
He said successive DMK governments had consistently prioritised labour welfare, implementing numerous schemes to safeguard workers’ interests. Reaffirming that commitment, Stalin noted that the present “Dravidian model” government had introduced several initiatives aimed at improving the lives of both organised and unorganised workers.
Among the measures cited were subsidies for auto-rickshaw purchases for women and transgender persons registered under welfare boards, pension schemes for unorganised workers, and dedicated welfare boards for various sectors, including auto repair workers. He also highlighted the formation of a welfare board for online gig workers, along with subsidies for purchasing e-scooters to support their livelihoods.
Additionally, the government has set up rest centres equipped with basic amenities to ensure workers can take breaks during duty hours. “On this May Day, which celebrates labour and the dignity of workers, the DMK will always stand as a steadfast ally of the working class,” Stalin said, extending his wishes to workers and their families.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
