AIADMK Leader Highlights Growing DMK-Congress Divide as Alliance Gains Momentum
In a significant political development, AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami declared on Sunday that the rift between the DMK and Congress is intensifying across Tamil Nadu, while the AIADMK-led front is emerging as a stronger coalition with additional parties poised to join. Speaking to reporters at Trichy airport, EPS emphasized that even after DMK MP Kanimozhi's meeting with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in Delhi, the fundamental disputes between the two parties remain unresolved.
Stalin's Silence and Alliance Dynamics Under Scrutiny
Palaniswami pointed out that Chief Minister M K Stalin, who previously frequently referenced the INDIA bloc in his speeches, has notably ceased mentioning it, indicating underlying conflicts. "There is a clear and growing conflict between the DMK and Congress," EPS stated, questioning Stalin's silence on the friction while the AIADMK-BJP alliance faces allegations of coercion. He asserted that the AIADMK front is not only solidifying but is positioned for a landslide victory in the upcoming assembly election.
Expansion of AIADMK Alliance with New Parties
Highlighting the alliance's growth, EPS revealed that as previously announced, parties like PMK and AMMK have already joined the coalition. "We are actively engaged in discussions with several other political groups, and there is a strong possibility of them joining us in the near future," he said, without disclosing specific names. This expansion strategy aims to bolster the AIADMK's electoral prospects and challenge the incumbent DMK government.
Criticism of TVK President Vijay and Governance Issues
Training his focus on political rivals, EPS launched a sharp critique against TVK president Vijay, labeling him a "corrupted person" based on penalties imposed by the income tax department, which have been upheld by the court. He further questioned Vijay's leadership suitability, accusing him of avoiding public accountability after the Karur stampede by hiding indoors. "A true political leader must confront crises and take responsibility, not abandon their party and supporters," EPS remarked.
Allegations of Incompetence Against DMK Government
Earlier at a wedding event in Thiruvaiyaru, Thanjavur district, EPS lambasted the DMK government as "incompetent," citing that Tamil Nadu has accumulated a debt of approximately Rs 5 lakh crores since Stalin assumed office. "Their primary achievement seems to be plunging the state into financial distress," he asserted. In contrast, he highlighted the AIADMK's past initiatives, including schemes supporting farmers, agricultural laborers, and residents of the Cauvery delta region.
Farmers' Concerns and Demands for Water Management
During a subsequent meeting with farmers in Thanjavur district, EPS addressed complaints about inadequate water supply affecting samba and thaladi crops. He urged the state government to increase Cauvery water outflow from the Mettur dam for irrigation purposes, calling for at least three weeks of enhanced supply to mitigate agricultural challenges. This move underscores the alliance's focus on rural and agricultural issues as key electoral battlegrounds.
