CHENNAI: The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) kicked off its Tamil Nadu assembly election campaign with a high-octane rally near Maduranthakam on Friday, headlined by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In a sharp escalation of political rhetoric, AMMK leader T.T.V. Dinakaran took direct aim at Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, accusing him of prioritizing family legacy over the state’s pressing needs.
Speaking before and during PM Modi’s address, Dinakaran painted a grim picture of Tamil Nadu under DMK rule. ‘While the entire state grapples with crime, violence, and economic hardship, the Chief Minister is busy grooming his son Udhayanidhi Stalin for the top job,’ he thundered. This dynastic obsession, he argued, has sidelined critical issues like law and order, governance, and public welfare.
The rally marked a significant show of unity among NDA partners, with AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami, PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss, Tamil Maanila Congress (Moopanar) president G.K. Vasan, and others sharing the stage in PM Modi’s presence. Dinakaran hailed Modi’s resolve to dismantle what he called ‘anti-people family rule’ in Tamil Nadu, emphasizing the NDA’s commitment to development, security, and corruption-free administration.
Reflecting on AMMK’s decision to join the NDA, Dinakaran acknowledged past differences but stressed they were set aside for the greater good. ‘We accepted PM Modi’s invitation with clarity and conviction, without illusion or pressure,’ he said. Invoking the legacy of former Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa, he urged leaders to prioritize public interest above all.
As Tamil Nadu gears up for fiercely contested elections, this rally signals the NDA’s aggressive strategy to challenge the incumbent DMK’s dominance. With Modi steering the campaign, the alliance aims to present a viable alternative rooted in progress and accountability. The coming months will test whether this unity holds and resonates with voters weary of familial politics.