AMMK Unveils Comprehensive 120-Point Manifesto for 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections
In a significant political development, Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK) general secretary TTV Dhinakaran formally released his party's detailed manifesto for the upcoming 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections on Saturday. The comprehensive document outlines an ambitious agenda comprising 120 key promises designed to address various sectors and concerns across the state.
Major Employment and Language Initiatives
Among the most notable assurances, the party has committed to reserving 85% of jobs in both State and Central government establishments within Tamil Nadu exclusively for Tamil people. This bold employment policy aims to prioritize local workforce participation in public sector roles.
Simultaneously, the AMMK has placed strong emphasis on promoting and preserving the Tamil language. Dhinakaran explicitly stated, "Tamil will be made the official language of the Tamil Nadu government and introduced for use in the High Court." This linguistic policy seeks to elevate Tamil's administrative and judicial status within the state.
Agricultural and Rural Development Promises
Addressing the persistent concerns of the agricultural community, Dhinakaran announced a sweeping debt relief measure: "All farmers' loans will be completely waived." This commitment represents a substantial financial intervention aimed at alleviating rural economic distress.
Regarding inter-state water disputes, particularly the contentious Cauvery-Mekedatu dam issue, the manifesto assures resolution through appropriate measures, acknowledging the long-pending nature of this critical resource conflict.
The rural employment framework also receives significant attention. The party has promised to extend the current 100-day work guarantee under employment schemes to 150 days, accompanied by a corresponding hike in wages for workers. This enhancement aims to provide greater economic security to rural laborers.
Governance, Police Autonomy, and Employee Benefits
Other key promises encompass governance reforms, including granting full operational freedom to the Tamil Nadu Police, introducing a new excise policy, and restoring benefits for government employees. Specifically for public sector workers, Dhinakaran stated, "For government employees, the party has assured the reintroduction of the Old Pension Scheme."
The manifesto also includes symbolic gestures, such as efforts to secure the Bharat Ratna award for former Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa and Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar, honoring their contributions to Tamil Nadu's political and social landscape.
Political Context and Electoral Dynamics
Dhinakaran revealed that the party has received 99 percent of the constituencies it had requested in the seat-sharing arrangement with the AIADMK-led NDA alliance, while simultaneously criticizing the current administration. He asserted, "Tamil Nadu is currently under family rule and such dark governance had never been witnessed in the state before in history."
Earlier, the NDA in Tamil Nadu, led by All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), announced its seat-sharing arrangement for the elections. AIADMK will contest 169 out of 234 seats, while the remaining 65 have been allocated to its allies.
Dhinakaran confirmed his campaign schedule, stating, "From April 6th I will start my campaign across TN." Tamil Nadu is scheduled to go to the polls in a single phase on April 23, with counting of votes set for May 4.
Three-Way Electoral Contest Emerging
The main contest is expected between the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA), which includes Congress, DMDK, and VCK, and the NDA, led by AIADMK with BJP and Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) as allies. Adding a compelling third dimension to the electoral landscape, actor-turned-politician Vijay will make his electoral debut with TVK, potentially reshaping traditional political equations in the state.
This manifesto release marks a strategic move by AMMK to position itself as a formidable contender with a distinct vision for Tamil Nadu's future, setting the stage for a highly competitive election season focused on regional identity, economic relief, and governance reform.
