DMK and AIADMK Lock Horns Over Alleged Copying of Election Promises
In a sharp political confrontation in Tamil Nadu, the ruling DMK and opposition AIADMK have leveled serious accusations against each other, claiming that one party is copying the other's poll promises and welfare programs. The exchange has intensified the pre-election rhetoric in the state, with both sides asserting their originality and commitment to the people.
AIADMK's Allegations Against DMK
AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami, on Friday, launched a scathing attack on the DMK, alleging that the ruling party has been "sticking the DMK label on AIADMK's schemes" and has now started "copying" the political strategies of the AIADMK as well. Palaniswami, commonly known as EPS, criticized the DMK government for failing to fulfill its promises, stating that this has led to widespread dissatisfaction among the populace.
EPS further accused Chief Minister M. K. Stalin of blaming the Union government to cover up the DMK administration's failure to secure adequate funds for key infrastructure and development projects. He specifically mentioned proposed metro rail schemes in Madurai and Coimbatore, highlighting what he described as a lack of progress. "People across Tamil Nadu are waiting to vote the DMK regime out of power," EPS asserted, questioning Stalin's ability to list implemented projects over the last five years and seek votes based on them.
DMK's Counter-Charges and Defense
In response, DMK minister Thangam Thennarasu countered the allegations, claiming that it is the AIADMK that is copying the poll promises of the DMK. Thennarasu argued that even individuals not affiliated with the DMK have noted that AIADMK's announced promises are merely replicas of schemes already executed by the DMK government. "They can make poll promises. But only the DMK can fulfil the promises," he told reporters in Virudhunagar, emphasizing his party's track record.
DMK functionaries elaborated on these charges, pointing to specific instances where they believe AIADMK has mimicked their initiatives. They cited EPS's criticism of the Kalaignar Mahalir Urimai Thogai, a scheme offering Rs 1,000 monthly to women, followed by AIADMK's announcement of providing Rs 2,000 for homemakers. Additionally, after Stalin announced priority in government jobs for jallikattu bull tamers, EPS promised Rs 10 lakh for the families of those killed during jallikattu events.
Key Schemes at the Center of the Dispute
The controversy extends to several welfare programs, with both parties claiming ownership. DMK members accused AIADMK of copying the free bus travel initiative; while DMK implemented free bus travel for women, AIADMK announced an extension to include men as well. Furthermore, AIADMK's promise to waive off student education loans was highlighted as part of DMK's 2021 election manifesto, adding fuel to the fire of accusations.
This ongoing dispute underscores the intense competition between the two major political forces in Tamil Nadu, as they vie for public support by showcasing their welfare agendas. With elections on the horizon, such exchanges are likely to continue, shaping the political discourse in the state.
