In a sharp critique ahead of the crucial state assembly elections, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief coordinator K A Sengottaiyan has dismissed the ruling DMK government's announcement to implement the Tamil Nadu Assured Pension Scheme as a mere "political stunt" designed to lure voters.
Pension Scheme a Poll Gimmick, Says TVK
Addressing reporters at the Coimbatore city airport on Sunday, Sengottaiyan stated that the pension scheme announcement was strategically timed to woo the electorate. He emphasized that he would offer a detailed comment on the scheme's merits only after thoroughly examining the official government order. This statement directly challenges the DMK administration's recent populist measure, framing it within the context of the impending electoral battle.
On Vijay's Rise and a "New History"
When questioned about Tamizhaga Vazhvurimai Katchi leader Velmurugan's remarks downplaying actor-politician Vijay's potential to achieve a top position, Sengottaiyan offered a robust rebuttal. He asserted that TVK is poised to become a movement that will "create a new history in the future." He added that the true sentiment of the people could only be assessed through ground-level interactions, not by speculative statements.
To bolster his point, Sengottaiyan cited a survey which, he claimed, ranked Vijay as the most influential politician in the world, placing him ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in second position. Tamil Nadu's Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin was placed fourth in this survey, according to the TVK leader. On the burning question of Vijay becoming the next Chief Minister, Sengottaiyan adopted a wait-and-watch approach, stating, "About Vijay becoming the next chief minister, time will tell."
Alliance Dynamics and Public Sentiment
Responding to Congress MP P. Chidambaram's jibe that TVK is merely a fan club, Sengottaiyan chose not to engage directly, remarking that everyone is entitled to their opinion and it would be impractical to respond to each one. He then shifted focus to the prevailing public mood, claiming a strong undercurrent for change.
"People are now longing for a good person to become their chief minister," he declared. "The state is witnessing such a sentiment after a long time. People are constantly saying they do not want the two Dravidian parties. What they want is a new face." This comment is seen as a direct appeal to voters disenchanted with both the DMK and the AIADMK.
Regarding party expansion, Sengottaiyan hinted at significant developments post the Pongal festival, suggesting the answer to how many will join TVK will be evident then. He also provided crucial clarity on alliance speculation, confirming that leaders T.T.V. Dhinakaran and O. Panneerselvam would not be joining TVK as members. However, he indicated they would be part of a broader alliance, setting the stage for a potential opposition coalition against the DMK.
