BJP’s state president Tamilisai Soundararajan talks to T Muruganandham about the Assembly elections that are crucial for her party and for her.
BJP has failed to forge a strong alliance.
Waiting for an alliance is not a sin in politics. DMK is yet to complete the alliance formation. We formed a strong alliance for 2014 Lok Sabha polls with an objective of continuing it for the Assembly elections. Unfortunately, every leader has their own expectations. This election is being fought for a change of guard from DMK and AIADMK.
What about BJP wasting a golden opportunity ahead of the Assembly polls?
I don’t buy this view. In an election, 50 days is a long period. For a party like BJP, which has an enthusiastic cadre, it will not be a difficult job. Maybe there are some small setbacks due to alliance issues, but we will make good that gap by focussing on campaigning. The general notion is that we have only around 2 per cent votes, but we have more than 10 per cent We have enrolled 50 lakh members recently. There is an undercurrent support for BJP among the people. In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, 1.40 crore people did not vote. This time, these votes will come to NDA.
BJP's election plan?
BJP national president Amit Shah will address a mammoth rally at Tiruchy in 10 days to commence our election campaign. We will introduce video vans. We will start conducting rallies in all Assembly constituencies with the slogan ‘Thamizhagam Engum Thaamarai Muzhakkam’ from April 1.
Highlight of your campaign?
We don't wish to carry out a negative campaign and find fault with others. We will highlight the achievements of the Narendra Modi government. BJP has proved that the national party can give good governance in Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, etc. There is a notion in Tamil Nadu that only regional parties can show concern for its people. We will prove that we have a focus on the state’s interests.