Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin Launches Scathing Attack on Central Government Over Budget Neglect
In a fiery address at the DMK youth wing south zone conference held in Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin came down heavily on the BJP-led central government for what he termed as "neglecting Tamil Nadu in the Union budget." The Chief Minister asserted that the people of the state would reciprocate appropriately in the upcoming assembly elections, signaling a strong political backlash.
Budget Allocation Sparks Outrage
Stalin expressed deep disappointment over the Union budget, stating that despite Tamil Nadu being number one in various parameters such as scheme implementation, awards, and infrastructure development, the state received "zero" in terms of budgetary allocations. "With the election for Tamil Nadu scheduled this year, we expected there would be some election stunt, but all we got was a zero," he lamented.
The Chief Minister highlighted specific expectations that were unmet, including pending funds for various projects and new railway schemes. He drew a parallel to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, where the NDA failed to secure any seats in Tamil Nadu, suggesting a similar outcome could be repeated. "So, we should also give them zero in return," Stalin declared, emphasizing the political message he intends to send.
Three-Language Policy Condemned as Hindi Imposition
Stalin also took aim at the central government's three-language policy, describing it as "like a sword hanging over our heads." He accused the BJP of using this policy as a tool for Hindi imposition, arguing that it threatens the Tamil language and identity. "They think that by destroying our language they can destroy our identity. We should not allow this," he asserted, recalling past protests against Hindi imposition and vowing to continue the resistance.
Unconventional Entry and Youth Mobilization
In a departure from his customary public meeting style, Stalin made a dramatic entrance by performing a ramp walk, reminiscent of TVK president Vijay. Cheered enthusiastically by party cadres, he waved his hands and shook hands with youth wing functionaries before mounting the stage, showcasing a vibrant and engaging approach to connect with the younger demographic.
Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin Calls for Electoral Push
Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, addressing the same gathering, urged youth wing functionaries to work tirelessly for the upcoming election. He called on them to act as brand ambassadors for the DMK, highlighting the government's achievements to the public. "You will be rewarded for your success," he assured, motivating the cadre for the electoral battle ahead.
Udhayanidhi also criticized AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami, accusing him of "surrendering" to the BJP. He pointed out that Palaniswami praised Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman even before she completed her budget address, labeling him a "hard-core slave of BJP" and reinforcing the DMK's stance against perceived subservience to the central government.
The conference in Virudhunagar has set a combative tone for the DMK's campaign, focusing on regional pride, linguistic identity, and economic neglect as key issues to mobilize voters in the forthcoming assembly elections in Tamil Nadu.
