BJP Leader Vanathi Srinivasan Launches Scathing Attack on DMK and Kamal Haasan in Coimbatore
In a fiery campaign speech just 48 hours before voting, BJP leader and Coimbatore North candidate Vanathi Srinivasan accused the DMK of deceptive tactics and alleged large-scale vote-buying using illicit funds. Speaking to party cadres at the Vadavalli roundabout during the final phase of campaigning, Srinivasan claimed the DMK is attempting to "buy Coimbatore" by offering payments ranging from Rs 2,000 to Rs 5,000 per vote.
Criticism of Kamal Haasan and DMK's Hindu Stance
Vanathi Srinivasan did not mince words when discussing actor-politician Kamal Haasan, describing him as a "supporting player" in what she called the DMK's plot to deceive voters. She reminded the audience that Haasan was rejected by voters in Coimbatore South during the last election and questioned his current electoral appeal. The BJP leader also challenged the DMK's attempts to project itself as not anti-Hindu, asking pointedly: "Has DMK ever spoken positively about Hindu gods or temples?"
Development Comparisons and Welfare Claims Dispute
Srinivasan highlighted development disparities between states, noting that while defense industrial corridors were established in both Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, Tamil Nadu had fallen behind during the DMK regime while Uttar Pradesh witnessed significant growth under BJP leadership. Later in the day, addressing media questions, she slammed DMK leader V Senthilbalaji for what she called misrepresentation of Rs 21,000 crore welfare claims for Coimbatore, sarcastically suggesting the amount might have been "brought down" for distribution purposes.
Defense of PM Modi Against Congress Criticism
When questioned about Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge's recent description of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a "terrorist," Srinivasan dismissed the remark as reflecting the frustration of a party facing electoral setbacks. She characterized the comment as stemming from Congress's lack of electoral success and diminishing political prospects rather than any substantive criticism of the Prime Minister's leadership.
The BJP candidate's remarks come at a crucial juncture in the Coimbatore electoral battle, with voting imminent and campaigns reaching their peak intensity. Her allegations of financial misconduct in the election process and sharp criticism of opposition figures underscore the high-stakes nature of the contest in this important Tamil Nadu constituency.
