AIADMK Leader EPS Slams DMK as 'Slave to Congress' in Erode Rally
In a sharp political counterattack, AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami (EPS) launched a scathing critique against the ruling DMK during a public meeting in Bhavanisagar, Erode district, on Sunday. Hitting back at the DMK's repeated characterization of the AIADMK as a "slave of BJP," EPS asserted that it is, in fact, the DMK that has historically been subservient to the Congress party.
EPS Defends AIADMK's Independence and Accuses DMK of Hypocrisy
Edappadi K Palaniswami emphatically stated, "AIADMK always stood on its own. Our party is full of hardworking people and youth. We are neither slaves to anyone nor the branch of any other party." He directly challenged the DMK's narrative, accusing them of engaging in false propaganda. "DMK has been a slave of Congress. DMK was holding alliance talks with Congress even when there was a raid on the first floor of DMK headquarters," EPS revealed, highlighting what he termed as the DMK's dependency.
He further charged that Chief Minister M K Stalin, despite this history, continues to indulge in misleading claims about the AIADMK's relationship with the BJP. EPS contrasted this with the AIADMK's current position, noting that his party has formed a strong alliance, while alleging that the DMK-led coalition is "losing its way." He pointed to daily conflicts between the DMK and Congress, casting doubt on the longevity of their alliance.
Personal Attacks and Governance Critiques
In a personal jab at the Chief Minister, EPS alleged, "If there was a chief minister in the history of Tamil Nadu who lied constantly, banking on publicity to govern, it was Stalin." He criticized Stalin's governance style, claiming, "All that he does are only photoshoots, while TN people are deprived of good governance." EPS contrasted their backgrounds, stating, "Stalin became the CM because of his father, while I worked hard and rose gradually."
To substantiate his claims, EPS said he had dared Stalin to a public debate on the achievements of their respective governments, but received no response. He touted the AIADMK's legacy, asserting that all sectors in Tamil Nadu, including agriculture, flourished under their regime. "Our party saved the state by providing drought relief, waived off cooperative crop loans twice, ensured farmers got 24-hour three-phase electricity," he detailed, emphasizing their pro-farmer policies.
Electoral Promises and Future Vision
Looking ahead to the upcoming elections, EPS made a significant announcement aimed at garnering support from small-scale entrepreneurs. He declared that if the AIADMK returns to power, they will waive cooperative bank loans taken by street vendors. This pledge is part of his broader vision to position the AIADMK as a party of self-reliance and grassroots development, in stark contrast to what he portrays as the DMK's alliance-driven politics.
The rally in Erode served as a platform for EPS to reinforce the AIADMK's independent stance and challenge the DMK's credibility, setting the stage for intensified political confrontations in Tamil Nadu.
