DMDK general secretary Premalatha Vijayakant, in an interview with TNIE’s S Kumaresan, said that the Tamil Nadu voters, being ‘cheated ‘ by the incumbent DMK-led state government, are preparing to bring the AIADMK-led alliance to power. The revisions in property tax and electricity bill tariff have helped turn the tide their way, she says.
Do you hope that people will support your AIADMK-DMDK alliance?
People have realised that the incumbent DMK government cheated them. They made numerous promises but failed to fulfil them adequately. Moreover, the DMK-led government increased property tax and electricity tariff, adversely affecting many residents. Instead of implementing a monthly billing cycle for electricity, they raised the tariff. Additionally, due to a flawed GST implementation by the union government, numerous small businesses suffered. Those affected are likely to support the AIADMK-led alliance.
Your alliance doesn’t have a PM face yet. Do you think the people will still support you?
Even the INDIA bloc hasn’t named a PM candidate. To elect the MP for the constituency, who will work for the welfare of the people, there is no need for a PM face. Furthermore, over the last five years, DMK MPs failed to address people’s concerns in parliament or introduce significant schemes for Tamil Nadu. During the campaigns, people have expressed discontent towards DMK MPs. Hence, the AIADMK-DMDK alliance is likely to garner support, as evidenced by the enthusiastic crowd at our campaign meetings.
Right now you don’t have the PM candidate. If there is any need for your support to form the government, who will be your choice?
It’s premature to speculate. The situation will be clear after the votes are counted on June 4, depending on the performance of other alliances and who requires our support.
Considering the current scenario, can you promise your MPs will address people’s grievances?
There are numerous factors influencing the formation of the next government which cannot be predicted at the moment.
However, our MPs are committed to serving the people diligently. They will work towards resolving the state’s grievances concerning union government-related issues.
