Launching a strong offensive against the opposition before the April 23 Assembly elections, Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin accused AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami of trying to align the state with the BJP. He urged voters to reject such politics decisively at the ballot box. Addressing an election rally in Tiruvannamalai, Udhayanidhi Stalin emphasized that the upcoming polls would determine Tamil Nadu’s development path.
Stalin portrayed the election as a direct contest between Chief Minister M. K. Stalin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He alleged that the AIADMK was working to enable the BJP’s entry into the state’s power structure. Udhayanidhi Stalin claimed that Palaniswami’s political approach could weaken Tamil Nadu’s rights and called on voters to support the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance to assert the state’s autonomy.
Udhayanidhi Stalin highlighted the importance of the election, stating that it was about protecting Tamil Nadu’s rights and identity. He urged voters to back the DMK alliance, emphasizing that a strong mandate would ensure the continuation of the party’s governance model. Referring to his lineage, he sought support not only as the son of the Chief Minister but also as the grandson of late DMK patriarch M. Karunanidhi.
The Deputy CM pointed out key achievements of the current government, such as free bus travel for women and monthly financial assistance schemes that have improved the socio-economic conditions of women in the state. He also mentioned the recently introduced Rs 8,000 ‘Illatharasi’ coupon scheme for homemakers as part of the DMK’s commitment to women’s empowerment. Udhayanidhi Stalin credited Karunanidhi’s welfare measures, like distributing gas stoves and free television sets, for enhancing convenience and awareness among women.
As the campaign gains momentum, the rally showcased the DMK’s strategy of combining welfare-driven messaging with strong political attacks on its rivals, setting the stage for a fierce electoral battle in the coming weeks.
