R ARIVANANTHAM
TRICHY, APR 1
Launching a blistering political offensive, M. K. Stalin on Wednesday accused the AIADMK of acting as a proxy for the Bharatiya Janata Party, warning that Tamil Nadu’s autonomy would be at stake if the opposition returned to power.
- M. K. Stalin frames polls as battle for State’s identity & autonomy
- Targets Edappadi K. Palaniswami, alleges “backdoor BJP control”
- Calls for ‘100% victory’ across key constituencies for SPA
- Invokes Dravidian legacy, questions NDA leadership clarity in Tamil Nadu
Addressing a massive public rally in Tiruchy, the DMK president campaigned for candidates of the Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA), urging voters to deliver a decisive mandate.
“Tamil Nadu’s Future vs Political Surrender”
Framing the poll as a defining moment, Stalin declared: “If the AIADMK comes to power, Tamil Nadu will effectively be pledged to the BJP. This election is not just political—it is about protecting our identity and self-respect.”
He appealed for a clean sweep, stating: “Give us a 100 per cent victory. Strengthen the hands of the DMK-led alliance to continue serving the people.”
“BJP Needs AIADMK to Survive in Tamil Nadu”
Taking a sharp dig at the BJP’s prospects, Stalin said: “If the BJP contests alone here, they would secure fewer votes than NOTA. That is why they are relying on the AIADMK.”
He further alleged: “The AIADMK today is functioning under the influence of the BJP, with key decisions being dictated from New Delhi.”
Dravidian Model vs ‘Divisive Politics’
Highlighting his government’s track record since 2021, Stalin asserted: “People trusted us to deliver a ‘Dravidian Model’ government, and we have largely fulfilled our promises while ensuring social harmony.”
Contrasting Tamil Nadu with BJP-ruled states, he claimed: “Tamil Nadu has remained free from conflicts based on caste and religion, unlike other states where divisions are being fuelled.”
Periyar Row & Legacy Questioned
Citing a recent controversy, Stalin said: “At an NDA meeting in Madurai, a portrait of Periyar was reportedly removed. Would leaders like MGR or Jayalalithaa have allowed this?”
Invoking icons like Periyar E. V. Ramasamy, M. G. Ramachandran and J. Jayalalithaa, he questioned the ideological direction of the AIADMK.
“Who is NDA’s CM Face?”
Casting doubts on leadership clarity, Stalin pointed out: “Even Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken about forming an NDA government here, but has not clearly projected EPS as the Chief Ministerial candidate.”
Final Pitch: Reject Opposition Alliance
Reiterating his central charge, Stalin warned: “An AIADMK government would mean surrendering Tamil Nadu’s rights and decision-making powers. I urge the people to decisively reject this alliance.”
