BJP's national working president, Nitin Nabin, issued a strong call for the removal of the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) from power in Tamil Nadu. He made these remarks while addressing a gathering in Coimbatore on Saturday.
A Call for Political Change in Tamil Nadu
Speaking at the national-level conclave 'Professional Connect', organized by the BJP's Professional Cell, Nabin stated that the time has come to send the DMK away. He accused the party of "belittling the Sanatana Dharma that we respect." The event also saw participation from Union Ministers L Murugan and Hardeep Singh Puri, among other party functionaries.
Allegations of Rampant Corruption
Nabin launched a direct attack on the DMK and its ally, the Congress, alleging that both parties are "steeped in corruption" in Tamil Nadu. He provided a financial comparison, claiming that during the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) regime, Rs one lakh crore was allocated to the state. In contrast, he stated that over the last 11 years under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the allocation has been Rs six lakh crore.
He credited PM Modi's leadership for promoting equal development for all without discrimination. Nabin also highlighted India's economic rise, noting that the country now ranks as the fourth-largest economy globally, a progress he said did not happen overnight.
Focus on Development and Safety Concerns
The BJP leader highlighted specific benefits for Tamil Nadu under central schemes. He pointed out that six lakh people in the state have benefited from the Central government's Mudra loan scheme. He also described Coimbatore as a developed city within Tamil Nadu.
However, Nabin raised serious concerns about law and order, particularly in the Kongu region (western districts of Tamil Nadu). He alleged that an unsafe environment prevails for women and children there, with violence continuing unabated.
Union Ministers Echo Government's Stance
Earlier at the same event, Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri, spoke about global trade challenges. Referring to steep tariffs once imposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump, Puri expressed confidence, saying "even if one door closed, many windows opened for India in the market."
He stated that India is exploring other avenues, from exporting seafood to expanding various types of trade, to overcome such situations. Puri also emphasized the benefits of Modi government schemes for women and girls and spoke about India's balanced approach to growth in the energy sector while addressing climate concerns.