Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday declared that the people of Tamil Nadu have resolved to oust the corrupt DMK government in the upcoming Assembly elections, as he formally inaugurated the National Democratic Alliance's campaign in the southern state. The Prime Minister's assertive statement set the tone for a heated electoral battle, with Chief Minister M K Stalin swiftly retaliating by accusing the BJP-led NDA of consistently betraying Tamil Nadu's interests.
PM Modi's Rally in Maduranthakam Marks Campaign Kickoff
Ahead of a mega rally at Maduranthakam in Chengalpattu district, PM Modi emphasized that the NDA's governance track record and dedication to regional aspirations are deeply resonating with the electorate. In a post on social media platform X, the Prime Minister stated, Tamil Nadu is with NDA... Tamil Nadu has decided that it's time to bid farewell to the corrupt DMK government. The NDA's governance record and commitment to regional aspirations are striking a chord with the people of the state.
The Maduranthakam rally signifies the formal commencement of the NDA's Assembly election campaign. AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami and other prominent NDA leaders are anticipated to share the stage with PM Modi, showcasing alliance unity. BJP Tamil Nadu election in-charge Piyush Goyal described the rally as the initial stride toward dismantling what he termed the DMK's corruption-ridden government, according to reports from news agency PTI.
Chief Minister Stalin's Sharp Rebuttal
Reacting vehemently, Chief Minister M K Stalin asserted that PM Modi visits Tamil Nadu solely during election seasons and charged the Central government with neglecting crucial state demands. In his own post on X, Stalin remarked, Tamil Nadu counts the betrayals of NDA. Prime Minister Modi comes to Tamil Nadu only when the election season comes.
Stalin highlighted several pending issues, questioning:
- When Tamil Nadu would receive the outstanding Rs 3,458 crore under the Samagra Shiksha scheme.
- When assurances on delimitation would be provided.
- When the anarchy of the Governor would cease.
Additionally, he pointed to delays in MGNREGA payments, the AIIMS Madurai project, disaster relief funds, and metro rail proposals for Coimbatore and Madurai. Stalin also reiterated the state's persistent demand for NEET exemption, underscoring the ongoing tensions between the state and central administrations.
Enhanced Security and Alliance Show of Strength
Security measures have been significantly bolstered in Maduranthakam in anticipation of the Prime Minister's visit. Officials, as per PTI, detailed elaborate arrangements, including a helicopter landing facility in the neighboring Chengalpattu district. The rally is being portrayed by the NDA as a demonstration of unity and strength, with leaders from various alliance parties in attendance.
This event marks a critical juncture as the BJP intensifies its efforts to challenge the ruling DMK in the lead-up to the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. The political landscape in the state is heating up, with both sides preparing for a contentious electoral contest that will shape the region's future governance.
