CM Stalin Accuses BJP of Targeting DMK, Vows Party Won't Be Intimidated
In a fiery address in Madurai on Saturday, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin launched a scathing attack on the BJP-led Union government, accusing it of deliberately targeting DMK leaders through central investigative agencies. He firmly asserted that the DMK, as a historic movement, would not be intimidated by such tactics.
Allegations of Political Vendetta and Raids
Speaking at a conference of DMK booth-level agents and functionaries from the southern zone, Stalin claimed that the BJP government has conducted the maximum number of raids against DMK members compared to any other opposition party. He alleged this was a strategic move to destabilize the state government and undermine its authority.
"DMK is a movement that withstood the Emergency. We will not be intimidated by the CBI, ED, or IT. We are fighting for Tamil Nadu's rights, and the people stand with us," Stalin declared, drawing parallels to the party's past resilience.
Defense of Welfare Schemes and Criticism of Centre
Stalin highlighted the success of state-run welfare initiatives, particularly the Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thogai scheme, which provides a Rs 5,000 payout to women. He stated that the announcement of this benefit ahead of elections had countered attempts to stall the program. According to Stalin, beneficiaries rushed to withdraw the money, fearing it might be reclaimed by the Union government, illustrating a contrast where the DMK government gives to the people, while the BJP-led Centre takes away.
He also criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for allegedly questioning the state's free bus travel scheme for women, known as Vidiyal Payanam. Stalin claimed that since the DMK assumed office, women have made 900 crore free trips, saving families approximately Rs 800 per month on transportation costs.
Call to Action Ahead of PM's Visit
With Prime Minister Modi scheduled to visit Madurai on March 1, Stalin urged the public to question the Centre on several key issues. He listed the absence of metro rail projects in Madurai and Coimbatore, delays in releasing the Keezhadi archaeological report, denial of NEET exemption for Tamil Nadu, and withholding of education funds due to the state's opposition to the three-language policy.
Political Rivalries and Electoral Goals
Targeting AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami, Stalin alleged that he had failed to defend Tamil Nadu's rights effectively. In contrast, Stalin asserted that the DMK would stand firm on its principles and continue to advocate for the state's interests.
Looking ahead to the upcoming elections, Stalin set an ambitious goal for the party: to cross the 200-seat mark. He called on cadres to work tirelessly to ensure victory for the DMK and its Secular Progressive Alliance partners, framing the electoral contest as "Team Tamil Nadu vs Team Delhi."
Event Highlights and Tributes
Earlier in the event, Stalin paid floral tributes to portraits of prominent leaders: Periyar, C N Annadurai, M Karunanidhi, and K Anbazhagan, honoring the party's legacy. Minister P Moorthy presented a sceptre (sengol) to Stalin, symbolizing authority and tradition.
The conference was attended by several key figures, including Ministers I Periyasamy, K N Nehru, K K S S R Ramchandran, Palanivel Thiagarajan, Geetha Jeevan, Mano Thangaraj, Thangam Thennarasu, and MPs Kanimozhi and T R Baalu, underscoring the party's unity and collective resolve.
