Stalin Condemns EPS for Degrading Political Discourse in Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin launched a scathing attack on AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami, accusing him of significantly lowering the standards of political debate in the state. Speaking at a campaign event in Sirkazhi, Stalin asserted that Palaniswami is unfit to serve even as the opposition leader, citing his failure to address critical issues affecting Tamil Nadu.
Allegations of Silence on Key State Concerns
Stalin highlighted several pressing matters where he claims EPS has remained conspicuously silent. These include the alleged imposition of a three-language policy by the central government, delimitation processes, constitutional amendments, and actions against churches and Christian charities through modifications to the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA). According to Stalin, this silence stems from AIADMK's compromised position under BJP influence.
Accusations of BJP Lease and Corruption Deals
The Chief Minister alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party from Delhi has effectively taken AIADMK and Palaniswami on a lease, leading to a surrender of Tamil Nadu's rights. He referenced the 2017 political turmoil, accusing Palaniswami of becoming chief minister by auctioning MLAs at Koovathur. Stalin further claimed that EPS has capitulated to BJP demands to evade corruption cases, reducing AIADMK to what he termed Amit Shah DMK, a derogatory reference to BJP's control.
Criticism of Central Infrastructure Policies
Turning his focus to the Union government, Stalin expressed disappointment that Tamil Nadu, despite being one of India's most industrialised states and a leading contributor to national taxes, does not rank among the top states in major central infrastructure schemes. He also condemned Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis for suggesting that Madurai would receive a metro rail project only if BJP wins elections, labeling this as political blackmail and questioning Fadnavis's authority to make such promises.
Celebration of DMK's Economic Achievements
At a separate event in Cuddalore, where he shared the stage with VCK president Thol Thirumavalavan and DMDK general secretary Premallatha Vijayakanth, Stalin touted the economic successes under his administration. He reported that Tamil Nadu's growth rate surged from a mere 0.07% during the AIADMK regime to an impressive 11.19% under DMK rule, earning the state recognition as a superstar state in global media reports.
Condemnation of PM Modi's Remarks on Women's Schemes
Stalin strongly criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for recent comments suggesting that free bus travel for women reduces profits for metro rail projects. He interpreted this as evidence that the Prime Minister does not prioritize women's advancement and warned that if the National Democratic Alliance returns to power, they might discontinue this beneficial scheme, undermining progress for women in Tamil Nadu.
