VIJAYAWADA: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, while campaigning in Coimbatore and other parts of Tamil Nadu in support of NDA candidates, launched a sharp attack on the DMK government in Tamil Nadu.
He alleged that despite support from the Centre, the DMK government has failed to utilise available development opportunities. Instead, he accused the party of focusing on corruption, neglecting law and order issues, and rising drug and illicit liquor consumption, and burdening people with debt over the past five years.
Naidu claimed that the DMK’s political graph has declined significantly. He further alleged a rise in crime, stating that crimes against women have increased by 50%, while crimes against Scheduled Castes have risen by 39%.
Highlighting issues related to liquor, he said that deaths due to spurious liquor have increased, with 22 people dying in 2023 and 60 in 2024. He also accused the government of collecting `10 extra per bottle, alleging that even alcohol consumers are being exploited.
He further criticised the DMK for allegedly disrespecting the Hindu Dharma and accused the party of creating divisions and hatred among the people of Tamil Nadu.
Naidu asserted that a ‘double-engine government’ would ensure rapid development and urged voters in Tamil Nadu to support the NDA in the upcoming elections.
Naidu campaigned in favour of NDA candidate Nagesh Kumar in Thalli constituency of Krishnagiri district and called upon the electorate to vote for development-oriented governance.
During the meeting, local NDA leaders appealed for the introduction of a bus service connecting Thalli with Tirupati. Responding positively, the Chief Minister assured that necessary steps would be taken.
Naidu expressed happiness over receiving the same warmth and affection in Tamil Nadu as in Andhra Pradesh.
He remarked that he feels at home even while visiting the neighbouring state and praised Tamil Nadu for preserving its rich cultural heritage.
He noted that the State has made significant strides in development.
Tamil Nadu requires double engine govt to regain glory: Naidu
Highlighting cultural and regional ties, Naidu said a large number of Tamil devotees visit Tirupati and emphasised unity among people beyond linguistic differences.
He recalled that N T Rama Rao began his film career in Tamil Nadu and credited him with facilitating Telugu Ganga water supply to Chennai. He added that, being from border district Chittoor, he understands the close relationship between the two states and stressed the need for mutual cooperation.
The Chief Minister lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for providing strong leadership and steering the country towards progress through welfare, development, and good governance. He said India has gained global recognition under Modi’s leadership.
Naidu also referred to the Women’s Reservation Bill introduced by the Centre under the ‘Viksit Bharat’ vision and criticised Congress and DMK for opposing it. He questioned their stance on providing 33% reservation for women.
Stating that Tamil Nadu requires a double-engine government to regain its past glory, Naidu said development would accelerate only if the NDA comes to power. He claimed that Andhra Pradesh, which faced setbacks under the previous regime, is now progressing towards development within 22 months due to the NDA governance model.
He further outlined plans for interlinking rivers from Godavari to Kaveri, with a broader vision of linking the Ganga and Kaveri rivers. He emphasised that continued leadership of Narendra Modi at the Centre is essential to achieve this goal and assured that the interests of South India would be protected.
He also accused the Tamil Nadu state government of increasing revenue through higher liquor prices. Stressing the importance of central support for development and employment, he suggested that Tamil Nadu should progress by drawing inspiration from former chief minister J Jayalalithaa.
Naidu appealed to voters to support the NDA.