PM Modi Positions NDA as Credible Alternative to DMK in Tamil Nadu
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday positioned the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) as a credible alternative to the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) in Tamil Nadu. Speaking at an NDA rally in Trichy, he called upon the people to support the alliance to bring transparent governance and faster development to the state.
Modi's Call for Change in Tamil Nadu
Modi emphasized that the upcoming election is the most important in Tamil Nadu's history. He stated, "The choice before the people is clear. One path leads to dynasty politics and corruption. The other path leads to development, opportunity and honest governance." He highlighted that the desire for change is gaining huge momentum across the state, with people determined to oust the DMK government.
"People want a government for every family, not for just one family, and they know only NDA can bring that change," Modi asserted, criticizing the DMK for alleged failures in governance.
Infrastructure and Development Claims
The Prime Minister outlined the NDA government's achievements in Tamil Nadu, noting that infrastructure funds have tripled in the last decade. He claimed that nearly Rs 57,000 crore has been spent on highways, which is four times more than under the previous Congress-DMK government. Additionally, about Rs 8,000 crore has been invested in building rural roads to enhance connectivity.
Criticism of DMK's Agricultural Policies
Modi targeted the DMK's handling of agricultural issues, particularly affecting farmers in the delta region, whom he described as the backbone of Tamil Nadu's food security. He accused the DMK of failing to deliver on promises, including a significant increase in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for paddy. "They deserved fair prices, good facilities and modern storage infrastructure," he said, lamenting the unfulfilled commitments.
He also alleged that illegal sand mining is destroying rivers and threatening the environment, with those responsible enjoying protection from the DMK.
Alliance Leaders and Political Dynamics
The rally was attended by key leaders of the NDA alliance, including:
- AIADMK general secretary Eddapadi K Palanisami
- PMK's Anbumani Ramadoss
- AMMK's TTV Dhinakaran
- TMC leader G K Vasan
This marks Modi's third visit to Tamil Nadu this year and his second this month, underscoring the strategic importance of the state in the upcoming elections.
AIADMK's Response to DMK Criticism
AIADMK general secretary Eddapadi K Palanisami responded to Chief Minister M K Stalin's criticism of the AIADMK's alliance with the BJP. He claimed, "It's their alliance which is in tatters. DMK has become a slave of Congress and managed to retain the alliance only by begging Congress."
Earlier Government Event
Prior to the rally, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated and laid foundation stones for projects worth Rs 5,600 crore at a government event, highlighting ongoing developmental initiatives in the region.
