NTK Founder Seeman Outlines Party's Vision and Critiques Tamil Nadu's Political Landscape
In a comprehensive interview, Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) founder Seeman articulated his party's core principles and offered sharp criticism of Tamil Nadu's established political forces. The conversation covered electoral recognition, governance failures, and ideological differences that define NTK's unique position in the state's politics.
Electoral Recognition and People's Mandate
When asked about contesting elections with official recognition from the Election Commission, Seeman emphasized that this recognition belongs not to him personally but to the people. "We are not primarily concerned with electoral victory," he stated. "What truly matters is ensuring the success and empowerment of the people." He expressed concern that Tamil Nadu's citizens have suffered despite repeatedly voting for major parties like DMK, AIADMK, Congress, and BJP.
"It is painful to witness continued support for parties that have repeatedly inflicted injustice," Seeman remarked, noting growing public support for NTK as evidenced by large rally turnouts. Regarding the party's decision to contest alone despite potential alliance benefits with their 8% vote share, he explained, "We founded NTK because we could not align with existing governance systems and ideologies."
Critique of Established Parties and Governance
Seeman highlighted historical grievances, recalling that "when my people (Sri Lankan Tamils) were being killed, everyone remained mute spectators." He criticized the erosion of Tamil language and exploitation of state resources, leaving Tamil Nadu burdened by poverty and unemployment due to administrative corruption.
"Congress and DMK have essentially given birth to BJP and AIADMK," he asserted, questioning why voters should continue supporting these established parties. "For six decades, governments have changed but the governance system has remained fundamentally unchanged. Why should we keep giving these parties another chance?"
The Freebies Debate and Alternative Vision
Seeman offered particularly strong criticism of what he termed "freebie politics," arguing that DMK and AIADMK misrepresent freebies as welfare measures. "You are only increasing the state's debt burden," he contended. "If assistance had been reduced from ₹1,000 to ₹500, one could argue people had progressed, but instead it was raised to ₹2,000. Rice was once sold at ₹2/kg and later given free. How does that reflect genuine upliftment?"
He described freebies as "a disgrace" and challenged critics to "name one meaningful scheme implemented despite the state government's outstanding debt of ₹10.5 lakh crore. Freebies will lead to ruin."
When questioned about NTK's own promises of free healthcare, education, and water, Seeman distinguished his approach: "They have failed to provide quality healthcare, education, and drinking water. Former chief ministers sought treatment in private hospitals when ill. Budget allocations increase yearly, but service quality hasn't improved. People deserve the same facilities available to the chief minister and Prime Minister."
He added emphatically, "Water is not a commodity to be sold, and I will ban its sale."
Tamil Nationalism vs. Dravidian Ideology
Seeman positioned Tamil nationalism in direct opposition to what he called "stolen" Dravidian ideology. "Politics is embedded in every aspect of life here—language, literature, culture, traditional agriculture, women's rights, job security, and economic development. That is what Tamil nationalist politics represents."
He challenged critics: "You have no right to oppose my politics unless you're willing to oppose a political party by name such as Telugu Desam."
Distance from BJP and Congress
Explaining NTK's distance from both BJP and Congress, Seeman argued, "There is no difference in their policies regarding GST, NRC, and NEET. One pursues aggressive Hindutva, while the other follows a softer version. One demolishes mosques, while the other allows them to be demolished. They follow identical policies in education, defense, and foreign affairs."
Policy Alternatives and Resource Management
On criticized issues like Tasmac (Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation) and resource mining, Seeman proposed alternatives: "Even the British did not exploit our natural resources as severely. You do not have the right to destroy what you cannot create. We will shut down Tasmac and promote traditional drinks such as toddy."
Actors in Politics and Principles
Addressing his own film background while criticizing actors entering politics, Seeman explained, "Films did not help me, or former chief ministers C.N. Annadurai and M. Karunanidhi; they helped MGR. He met his fans, while the others did not. I did not launch my party through the film industry, but after returning from prison."
He emphasized that "politics must be guided by principles and dreams. Anyone entering politics should learn about literature, language, history, land resources, politics, and the economy. Speaking only about power after the makeup comes off is unacceptable."
Failed Alliance with TVK's Vijay
Regarding attempted collaboration with TVK founder Vijay, Seeman revealed, "We discussed forming an alliance for the 2026 election. I have affection for my brother, but I never expected him to compromise so severely on principles. He speaks of Dravidian politics but seeks to destroy the party founded by Anna while invoking Anna. Similarly, he calls the party founded by MGR corrupt yet says it should be eliminated. He describes BJP as fascist yet warmly accepts anyone who defects from that very party as a friend."
Seeman identified fundamental differences: "Vijay wants to become chief minister. I, however, have my own dreams. When he wanted Congress in our alliance, I asked how he could support a party that stood against the Tamil race. Those around him have led him in a different direction. He has lost the locus standi to speak about BJP since contesting from areas dominated by Christians and members of his caste."
Inclusive Candidate Selection
Addressing NTK's nomination of six Brahmin candidates despite Dravidian parties' historical anti-Brahmin stance, Seeman explained, "Dravidam was built on an anti-Brahmin narrative. By exploiting that opposition, it destroyed my language, history, and identity. Now, we must use that same tool to dismantle Dravidam."
Throughout the interview, Seeman consistently returned to NTK's foundational principle: putting Tamil Nadu's people and their long-term welfare above short-term political gains or alliances.
