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Stalin, Kamal Haasan, Premalatha Rally in Salem, Spotlight Women's Welfare

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin emphasized his government's commitment to women's welfare, stating his first official act was to authorize free bus travel for women. At a separate rally in Salem, MNM chief Kamal Haasan praised Stalin and fondly recalled the late DMK patriarch M. Karunanidhi. DMDK leader Premalatha Vijayakant also commended Stalin's polite leadership and his control over the ruling alliance, while taking a swipe at the NDA. The remarks come as political campaigning intensifies ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, with welfare and alliance dynamics being key factors.

Key Points: Tamil Nadu Polls: Stalin, Kamal Haasan Highlight Women's Welfare

  • Stalin's first act was free bus travel for women
  • Kamal Haasan praises Stalin, recalls Karunanidhi
  • Premalatha Vijayakant commends Stalin's alliance management
  • 2026 Tamil Nadu elections campaign intensifies
  • Welfare schemes central to political pitch
3 min read

Tamil Nadu Polls: M K Stalin highlights women's welfare schemes, free bus travel initiative in Salem

CM Stalin highlights free bus travel for women as Kamal Haasan, Premalatha Vijayakant praise his leadership in Salem rallies ahead of 2026 TN polls.

"The first file I signed was for free bus travel for women. - M K Stalin"

Salem, April 16

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK chief M K Stalin on Wednesday highlighted his government's commitment to women's welfare, stating that the first file he signed after assuming office was for free bus travel for women.

Addressing a gathering in Salem, Stalin said, "The first file I signed was for free bus travel for women. I want every woman to enjoy the benefits and said that, whatever the amount benefiting women, I will do that for the welfare of women."

He reiterated that the state government remains focused on implementing schemes aimed at empowering women and improving their socio-economic conditions.

The remarks come as political parties intensify their campaigns ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, with welfare initiatives emerging as a key poll plank.

Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) chief Kamal Haasan on Wednesday praised Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin and recalled late DMK patriarch M. Karunanidhi while addressing a public rally in Salem.

Speaking at the event, Haasan said, "I see the smile of Karunanidhi on Stalin's face...When I was young, Stalin's father asked me why I did not join DMK. But now I am here...The rally has more than 30,000 people. But no incident happened."

The rally comes amid intensified campaigning in the state ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, with leaders reaching out to voters across regions.

Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) leader Premalatha Vijayakant praised Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin for his leadership, while taking a swipe at the NDA over alliance management.

Addressing a gathering in Salem, she said, "Stalin is polite. When political parties have different opinions and thoughts, we have some issues. But Stalin has the entire alliance under control.

"A brother has come to politics. Vijayakanth came from cinema, and Kamal has come from cinema. You are a first-step lollypop-eating boy. You are taking the first step into politics", she said.

Her remarks come amid intensifying political activity in the state ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, with alliance dynamics emerging as a key factor in the electoral contest.

Tamil Nadu will go to the polls in a single phase on April 23, with the counting of votes scheduled for May 4.

The main contest is expected between the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance, which includes the Indian National Congress, DMDK and VCK, and the National Democratic Alliance led by AIADMK with BJP and PMK as allies.

Actor-turned-politician Vijay is also set to make his electoral debut with his party TVK, which could turn the contest into a three-way fight.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh Q
Good to see welfare at the center of the campaign. But let's be honest, these are all pre-election promises. The real test is implementation and whether these benefits reach the last woman in the queue. Hope they deliver.
A
Arjun K
Interesting to see Kamal Haasan and Premalatha both praising Stalin. The alliance seems strong, which is crucial. In Tamil Nadu, a united front often decides the winner. AIADMK-BJP will have a tough fight.
S
Sarah B
As an observer from outside TN, it's fascinating how cinema and politics are so intertwined there. Vijay's entry adds another layer. But ultimately, voters should look at governance, not just star power.
M
Meera T
Women's welfare should be a priority for every government, not just an election plank. I appreciate the free bus travel, but what about safety, job opportunities, and healthcare? Need a comprehensive approach.
K
Karthik V
The 2026 battle is already heating up! With Vijay's TVK in the fray, it could split the anti-incumbency vote if any. DMK's focus on schemes is smart, but the opposition will counter with their own narrative. Exciting times for TN politics.

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