AIADMK Leader EPS Slams DMK for Governance Failures and Personal Attacks
In a fiery campaign speech at Kancheepuram on Friday, AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami launched a scathing attack on the ruling DMK, accusing Chief Minister M K Stalin and Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin of resorting to personal attacks instead of addressing his charges of governance failures. Palaniswami, commonly known as EPS, asserted that the DMK leadership is marked by incompetence and hypocrisy, leading to severe issues in Tamil Nadu.
Allegations of Debt and Mismanagement
EPS highlighted that Tamil Nadu is reeling under significant debt, attributing this to poor governance by the DMK. He stated, Tamil Nadu is reeling under debt because it is being ruled by those who do not know how to govern. This criticism comes amid ongoing political tensions, with EPS sharpening his focus on Stalin and his family, accusing them of hijacking the DMK from its original purpose.
Family Control and Corporate Takeover Claims
Expanding on his attack, EPS alleged that the late Dravidian icon C N Annadurai founded the DMK to serve the people, but it has been taken over by the family of the late Chief Minister M Karunanidhi. He claimed, DMK has now become a corporate company run by a single family, suggesting a departure from its grassroots origins. This remark was made after EPS paid a visit to the Anna memorial, emphasizing his commitment to the party's foundational values.
Warning Against Personal Attacks
EPS specifically targeted Udhayanidhi Stalin, accusing him of preferring personal attacks over substantive political debate. He issued a stern warning, stating that if provoked, the AIADMK could respond ten times stronger. Additionally, EPS dismissed allegations that he is a slave of BJP leaders, reinforcing his party's independent stance in Tamil Nadu politics.
Criticism of Expelled Leader O Panneerselvam
Turning his attention to internal party matters, EPS took a dig at expelled AIADMK leader O Panneerselvam (OPS). He recounted that OPS voted against the AIADMK government but was still given positions like coordinator and deputy chief minister upon his return, only to later conspire against the party. EPS added that OPS has now joined an archrival, which he described as an evil force as defined by party founder M G Ramachandran.
Listing Governance Failures and Future Promises
EPS listed several alleged governance failures under the DMK rule, including:
- Deterioration in law and order
- Rising drug abuse
- Increased tax hikes
He accused the ruling party of shielding offenders and promised that if voted to power, the AIADMK would address these issues effectively. This part of his speech aimed to rally support by highlighting the party's commitment to improving state affairs.
The campaign event underscored the intensifying political rivalry in Tamil Nadu, with EPS positioning the AIADMK as a strong alternative to the current administration. His remarks reflect ongoing debates over governance, family politics, and party integrity in the state.
