Chief Minister MK Stalin, addressing the DMK’s youth wing second state-level conference in Pethanaickenpalayam, Salem district, accused the BJP of attempting to erode the identity of Tamils by targeting their language, traditions, state self-respect, and ethnicity. Stalin asserted that the government formed by the ‘I.N.D.I.Alliance’ would prioritise federalism, respect states, and benefit Tamil Nadu and its people, emphasising the need to protect Tamil identity from external threats.
Stalin criticised Prime Minister Modi, asserting that the BJP-led government has consistently aimed to curtail states’ rights since Modi assumed office. He highlighted, “The BJP government enacts laws even on matters that are under the state list.” Taking a swipe at Modi’s approach to Tamil Nadu, Stalin remarked, “Reciting Thirukkural, celebrating Pongal, and building a temple in Ayodhya won’t secure votes from TN. They have not understood us yet.”
Accusing the BJP of undermining states’ powers, Stalin pointed to key policies such as the new education policy, National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET), and the Goods and Services Tax (GST), asserting that these measures have weakened states’ authority in education and finance. He criticised the BJP for treating states as ATMs that funnel money to the Union government. Stalin further accused the BJP of interfering in state politics, using tactics such as breaking up parties, influencing MLAs, and attempting to control governments through governors.
Referring to the recent floods in Tamil Nadu, Stalin claimed that despite promises from the Prime Minister, Finance Minister, and Defence Minister to provide financial aid, not a single penny had been received. He stressed the importance of federalism at the centre and autonomy for states, echoing the slogan advocated by the late MKarunanidhi. Stalin pledged that the coalition government of ‘INDIA’ would strive to create a better constitution that safeguards states’ rights, emphasizing that this fight extends beyond opposition-ruled states to include those governed by the BJP.
Accusations of the BJP being fascist and planning to destroy Tamil language, culture, the state’s value, and identity were vehemently expressed by Stalin. He reiterated that the DMK stands for the ideals of social justice, equality, self-respect, brotherhood, states’ rights, language, nationalism, women’s rights, and the welfare of the oppressed. Stalin positioned the DMK as the guardian of Tamil Nadu’s prosperity, cautioning that this prosperity is now under threat from what he labelled the fascist BJP.
The BJP, in response, has dismissed these accusations, emphasising their commitment to development and national unity. The political verbal duel intensifies as Tamil Nadu approaches elections, with the BJP aiming to challenge the long-standing dominance of the DMK and AIADMK in the state. The dynamics of this electoral battle highlight the clash of ideologies and visions for Tamil Nadu’s future.
As the political landscape heats up, the accusations and counter-accusations are likely to set the tone for a spirited election campaign, with both sides vying for the support of the people and attempting to shape the narrative in their favour.
