CPM Leader Vijoo Krishnan Endorses DMK's M K Stalin as Sole Hope for Tamil Nadu's Federal Rights
In a significant political development, CPM polit bureau member Vijoo Krishnan declared on Thursday that only DMK president M K Stalin possesses the capability to establish a "strong and courageous government" in Tamil Nadu. This government, according to Krishnan, is essential to counter the alleged erosion of states' rights through the contentious process of delimitation.
Election Rally in Coimbatore Highlights Alliance Support
Addressing an election meeting at Vadavalli in Coimbatore, Krishnan voiced his support for DMK candidate Thurai Senthilselvan, who is contesting from the Coimbatore North constituency under the banner of the Secular Progressive Alliance. During his speech, Krishnan launched a sharp critique against the BJP and the Union government, accusing them of implementing discriminatory policies that disproportionately affect states not governed by the BJP.
Contrasting Development Models: Tamil Nadu vs. BJP-Ruled States
Krishnan pointed to the campaigning efforts of chief ministers from Rajasthan and Delhi on behalf of BJP candidate Vanathi Srinivasan, framing it as a pivotal question for voters. He urged the electorate to consider whether they prefer the development models of those states or wish to continue with Tamil Nadu's established path of progress.
To bolster his argument, Krishnan cited alarming statistics from Maharashtra, alleging that farmer suicides persist without abatement and that approximately 26,000 children under the age of five succumbed to malnutrition in the state last year. In stark contrast, he praised Tamil Nadu's innovative breakfast scheme for schoolchildren as a progressive welfare measure that underscores the state's commitment to social well-being.
Education and Disaster Response: Allegations of Central Bias
Further criticizing the Centre, Krishnan claimed that over 1,000 government schools have been shuttered in states such as Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Bihar. He highlighted that Tamil Nadu and Kerala, in contrast, have actively strengthened their public education systems, demonstrating a commitment to accessible learning.
Krishnan also accused the Union government of showing bias in its response to natural disasters. He alleged that Kerala did not receive adequate assistance during calamities and was even blocked from accepting foreign aid, while Uttarakhand was promptly supported. This, he argued, exemplifies a pattern of unequal treatment towards non-BJP ruled states.
Reiterating the Call for Unity Under Stalin's Leadership
In his concluding remarks, Krishnan reiterated his firm belief that only M K Stalin can effectively unite the states and spearhead the fight against delimitation. He emphasized that Stalin's leadership is crucial for protecting federal rights and ensuring that Tamil Nadu's autonomy and development trajectory remain intact amidst growing centralizing tendencies.
The endorsement from a senior CPM leader underscores the strategic alliances forming in Tamil Nadu's political landscape, as parties rally to present a united front against perceived threats to state sovereignty and welfare policies.
