On last day, Stalin asks voters to support DMK alliance to protect TN's rights, culture, growth
Chennai, April 21
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, on Tuesday made a final appeal to voters as the high-voltage campaigning for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections comes to an end this evening, urging people to back the DMK-led alliance to secure the state's future.
With polling scheduled for April 23, the Election Commission has also enforced a ban on the publication of opinion polls during the silence period.
A total of 4,023 candidates are contesting across 234 constituencies, setting the stage for a tightly fought four-cornered contest involving the DMK, AIADMK, Naam Tamilar Katchi, and other parties.
Despite intense summer heat across the state, political activity has remained brisk, with leaders and candidates engaging in rallies, roadshows, and door-to-door campaigns to reach voters.
Stalin has led the DMK's campaign with an extensive statewide tour, canvassing support for party nominees and alliance partners.
As campaigning is drawing to a close, he released a video message on social media platform X, underlining his government's achievements and cautioning against forces that he said aim to derail Tamil Nadu's progress.
In the video, Stalin struck an emotional note, saying his bond with Tamil Nadu and its people is rooted in deep responsibility.
"When people call me more dangerous than my father, I see it as a reminder that I am a threat to those who wish to betray Tamil Nadu or obstruct its development," he said.
Dismissing allegations that the DMK is anti-Hindu, Stalin accused the BJP of spreading false narratives for political gains.
He asserted that the DMK has consistently stood with minority communities and would continue to do so.
Highlighting his government's performance, Stalin said temple properties worth over ₹7,000 crore had been retrieved and that thousands of temples had been renovated under the DMK regime.
He added that the 'Dravidian model' of governance has delivered substantial welfare benefits and development outcomes.
Responding to criticism, the Chief Minister acknowledged that no administration is without shortcomings but maintained that Tamil Nadu fares better than many other states.
He assured that steps are being taken to address gaps and that improvements would soon be visible.
Calling the election crucial, Stalin urged voters to support the DMK alliance to safeguard the state's rights, culture, and development trajectory over the next five years.
— IANS
Reader Comments
As a young voter, I'm tired of the same old emotional appeals. Show us concrete data on job creation, industrial growth, and educational outcomes. What is the 'Dravidian model' delivering for my generation's future? We need specifics, not just sentiment. 🤔
Protecting Tamil culture and language is paramount. We've seen attempts to impose a homogenized 'national' culture elsewhere. Stalin's call to safeguard our unique identity resonates deeply. Tamil Nadu's rights must be defended.
It's good he acknowledged that no administration is without shortcomings. That shows some humility. But the real test is fixing those gaps. Hope the welfare schemes are reaching the poorest families in the villages and not just urban centers.
The campaign has been incredibly heated! Respect to all the party workers campaigning in this brutal summer heat. Whoever wins, the hope is for a stable government that works on water management and power supply—our biggest challenges. 🙏
Watching from abroad, it's fascinating to see a state election with such high stakes and clear ideological lines. The mention of a four-cornered contest suggests a vibrant democracy. Hope the outcome reflects the people's will for development and harmony.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.