Rajnath Singh Pledges to Restore Karthigai Deepam Tradition in Tamil Nadu
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh declared on Sunday that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), will ensure the lighting of the Karthigai Deepam at the Thiruparankundram Subramanya Swamy Temple once it forms the government in Tamil Nadu. Addressing a vibrant roadshow from Chindamani to the Kamarajar statue in Vasudevanallur, Singh campaigned in support of BJP candidate Ananthan Ayyasamy, sharply criticizing the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) administration.
Allegations of Religious Rights Violation
Singh accused the DMK government of curtailing devotees' worship rights, citing incidents where Tamil Nadu police allegedly stopped and arrested individuals attempting to light the traditional Karthigai Deepam on the hill. "The Madras High Court has clearly stated that permission must be granted for this age-old tradition of lighting lamps," he emphasized. "However, the DMK regime has failed to comply, disrespecting our cultural heritage. Once the NDA assumes power in the state, we will definitely ensure the Deepam is lit, upholding both legal mandates and spiritual practices."
Criticism of Law and Order and Governance
The Defence Minister launched a broadside against Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and his government, holding them responsible for deteriorating law and order. "Crime rates are escalating alarmingly, including offences against vulnerable groups like children and Dalits," Singh asserted. "This reflects a systemic failure of the DMK administration to protect its citizens." He further implicated Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin in these governance lapses, painting a grim picture of public safety under the current regime.
Corruption and Resource Mismanagement
Singh leveled serious corruption allegations, claiming DMK leaders are involved in illegal activities such as sand mining and disproportionate assets cases. "They are shamelessly plundering Tamil Nadu's natural resources for personal gain," he charged. In a particularly stark example, he referenced an ongoing investigation into a kidney trafficking case linked to a DMK MLA's hospital. "In a leaked video, the MLA is heard saying, 'If I want to buy a Rolls-Royce car, I have to steal more kidneys.' This reveals how the DMK government is playing with the lives of the poor and vulnerable," Singh stated, highlighting ethical breaches in healthcare.
Illicit Liquor Tragedy and Policy Failures
The minister also pointed to the recent illicit liquor tragedy in Kallakurichi, questioning how such illegal operations could persist under DMK watch. "This is not merely an accident; it is a consequence of negligent governance and collusion with criminal elements," he argued. Singh promised that a BJP-led government would eradicate the liquor mafia by forming special anti-trafficking teams in every district, aiming to curb such public health crises.
Accusations of Mocking Beliefs and Political Contrast
Further escalating his critique, Singh accused the DMK of "mocking religious beliefs," alluding to past remarks by Udhayanidhi Stalin on Sanatana Dharma. He contrasted the two political blocs with a pointed acronym: "In DMK, 'D' stands for Dushprayogam (abuse of power), 'M' for Muraikedu (corruption), and 'K' for Kuttram (crime). In contrast, NDA represents Nanmai (goodness), Nyayam (justice), Development, and Amaithi (peace)."
On Delimitation and Financial Mismanagement
Addressing national issues, Singh noted the BJP's support for 33% reservation for women in Parliament, alleging that the Congress and DMK have blocked this progressive measure. He also criticized the state's financial health, stating, "Tamil Nadu's debt has ballooned under DMK rule, yet there has been no corresponding benefit to the people due to misguided policies and poor governance."
Continued Campaign Efforts
Later in the day, Singh held another roadshow in the Radhapuram constituency of Tirunelveli district, campaigning for BJP candidate S.P. Balakrishnan. This underscores the BJP's intensified efforts to gain ground in Tamil Nadu, positioning itself as an alternative focused on justice, development, and cultural preservation.
