In a sharp political retort, BJP Tamil Nadu state president Nainar Nagenthran declared on Tuesday that the upcoming election results will definitively reveal who truly embodies the "makkar" (faulty) engine and the "dappa" (broken) engine in the state's political landscape. His comments came as a direct response to recent remarks made by DMK leaders, escalating the war of words ahead of the polls.
Context of the 'Engine' Metaphor
Nagenthran was specifically addressing statements made at the DMK women's conference in Thanjavur on Monday. During the event, DMK MP K Kanimozhi had criticized the Centre-state relationship, labeling it a "makkar engine," implying inefficiency and dysfunction. Subsequently, Chief Minister M K Stalin amplified this critique by terming it a "dappa engine," suggesting a complete breakdown. These metaphors have quickly become central to the political discourse, symbolizing the DMK's allegations of poor coordination and support from the central government.
BJP's Counter and Prediction
Turning the tables on the DMK, Nagenthran questioned the stability and effectiveness of the DMK-Congress alliance itself. "It remains to be seen whether the DMK-Congress alliance will last or itself become the real 'makkar engine'," he asserted. He confidently predicted that post-election, the public will gain clarity: "After the polls, we'll know who is the true 'makkar engine', who is the 'dappa engine', and who represents the efficient 'Vande Bharat engine." This analogy positions the BJP as the symbol of progress and efficiency, contrasting sharply with the DMK's portrayal of central governance.
On CBFC Cuts and Film Certification
Shifting focus to another contentious issue, Nagenthran commented on the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) imposing cuts on actor Vijay's film Jana Nayagan. He emphasized that the CBFC is an autonomous body, similar to institutions like the Election Commission and Enforcement Directorate, operating independently in its decisions. "Only the CBFC knows the reasons for the restrictions," he stated, deflecting blame from political interference.
He further challenged the DMK by pointing out a historical contrast: "Why was it not highlighted when Parasakthi, a film loaded with DMK ideology, was cleared without any issue?" This remark aims to underscore perceived biases and double standards in how film certifications are scrutinized based on political affiliations.
Dismissal of TVK's Claims
In a final jab, Nagenthran dismissed the claims of the Tamil Nadu-based TVK party about forming a corruption-free government as "laughable." This dismissal reinforces the BJP's stance against opposition narratives, framing them as unrealistic or insincere in the broader political contest.
Overall, Nagenthran's statements from Trichy highlight the intensifying political rhetoric in Tamil Nadu, with metaphors like "makkar engine" becoming pivotal in defining electoral battles and governance critiques.
