AIADMK Announces Financial Support for Jallikattu Events in Tamil Nadu
In a significant campaign promise, AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami declared that if his party returns to power in Tamil Nadu, the government will provide a substantial grant of 5 lakh rupees for each jallikattu event conducted with proper permission. This announcement was made during an election rally in Pudukottai on Wednesday, where EPS addressed a crowd of supporters, emphasizing the party's commitment to preserving and supporting traditional cultural practices.
Enhanced Safety Measures and Compensation for Participants
Beyond the financial grant, Palaniswami outlined additional safety provisions. He stated that the government would offer 10 lakh rupees as compensation to the family of any registered participant who loses their life after being hit by a bull during a jallikattu event. Furthermore, he assured that if any participant is injured, the government will arrange full insurance coverage, with all costs borne by the state. "This initiative aims to ensure the safety and well-being of those involved in this cherished tradition," EPS explained, highlighting the party's focus on both cultural promotion and participant welfare.
Criticism of DMK's Governance and Law and Order
Shifting focus to political criticism, Edappadi Palaniswami launched a sharp attack on DMK president M K Stalin, disputing claims that Tamil Nadu is in a peaceful state. "Stalin runs the government based solely on what officials tell him, leading to a severe breakdown in law and order," he alleged. EPS pointed out that incidents of murder, theft, and sexual assault occur daily, attributing this rise in crime to the rampant spread of drugs like ganja. He accused the ruling DMK of inaction, suggesting that those backing the drug trade have connections to the party, thereby hindering effective enforcement.
Allegations of Widespread Corruption and Party Transformation
Palaniswami further claimed that corruption permeates every department of the current government, vowing that the AIADMK would take decisive action against such malpractices upon regaining power. In a pointed remark, he alleged that the DMK, originally founded by Anna, has transformed into a family-centric entity under the Karunanidhi lineage. "It is no longer a political party but operates like a corporate company," EPS stated, questioning the party's democratic integrity and public service ethos.
Countering Alliance Criticisms with Historical References
Earlier in Sivaganga, EPS addressed DMK's criticism of AIADMK's alliance with the BJP by presenting a photograph of former chief minister M Karunanidhi with former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. "Stalin labels me a 'sanghi,' but was Karunanidhi a 'sanghi' when he allied with Vajpayee? Murasoli Maran is also in the photo—was he a 'sanghi'?" he questioned rhetorically. He also referenced recent internal issues within the Congress-DMK alliance, noting Kanimozhi's travel to Delhi to resolve them, and asked if that made her a 'sanghi' as well. Accusing Stalin of making baseless allegations driven by fear of electoral defeat, EPS remarked, "You have clung to the Congress party, begging for an alliance out of desperation."
This series of announcements and criticisms underscores the AIADMK's campaign strategy, blending promises of cultural and financial support with robust political attacks on the incumbent DMK government, as the election season intensifies in Tamil Nadu.
