BJP Confirms PM Modi's Campaign Rally in Coimbatore Amid Tamil Nadu Poll Preparations
Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party president Nainar Nagendran declared on Saturday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Coimbatore to campaign for BJP candidates as the party intensifies its efforts for the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. Speaking to reporters in Udhagamandalam, located in the Nilgiris district, Nagendran highlighted the political dynamics in the state while launching sharp criticisms against the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam and its ally, the Indian National Congress.
Allegations of Confusion Between DMK and Congress
Nagendran asserted that there is significant confusion between the DMK and Congress in Tamil Nadu, pointing out that senior Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi have not actively campaigned or publicly endorsed Chief Minister MK Stalin despite the election campaign gaining momentum. "There is confusion between DMK and Congress in Tamil Nadu. Neither Rahul Gandhi nor Sonia Gandhi has come to congratulate the chief minister or campaign so far. I do not know if they have such an understanding," he stated, questioning the cohesion of the opposition alliance.
Claims of Central Funds Misuse by State Government
The BJP leader further alleged that several welfare measures implemented in Tamil Nadu are funded by the central government but are being projected as state initiatives. "The central government provides all the goods in fair price shops. But the state government says that we will provide them. Similarly, they say that houses are being built through the central government, but the state government does the same," Nagendran explained, accusing the DMK-led administration of taking credit for central schemes.
Defense of Women's Reservation and Criticism of State Opposition
Nagendran defended the women's reservation initiative, accusing the state government of opposing policies introduced by the Centre. "They think that if the 33 per cent reservation bill for women is brought, it will be against democracy and the country will be divided. Since 1996, there has been a stance that women should be given reservations. The state government opposes any plans that the central government brings," he said. He emphasized that "The provision of 33 per cent reservation for women is a welcome thing. Those who block this will only earn the opposition of women."
Accusations of Dynastic Politics and Family Rule
Stepping up his criticism of the DMK leadership, Nagendran accused the ruling party of promoting dynastic politics, claiming that Chief Minister Stalin is positioning Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin for future leadership. "Chief Minister Stalin's plan is to bring Udhayanidhi Stalin as the next Chief Minister. Udhayanidhi Stalin, who said that he will not enter politics in the 2020-2021 period, is currently contesting the elections. Udhayanidhi has now been made the Deputy Chief Minister. Currently, there is a family rule and the entire income in Tamil Nadu is going to a single family. The people of Tamil Nadu are currently watching this," he alleged.
Support for Increased Lok Sabha Seats and Response to Actor-Politician
Nagendran also expressed support for the proposed increase in Tamil Nadu's Lok Sabha seats from 39 to 59, arguing that greater representation would enhance public service delivery. "Even after 75 years of independence, there has been no change in Parliament. Now a change is needed, especially in Tamil Nadu," he remarked, adding that any defeat of the bill in Parliament would not impact the state elections. When asked about actor-politician Joseph Vijay's comments on electoral competition, Nagendran termed the statement "very unfortunate," without elaborating further.
