Tiruchy: Launching a sharp attack on the BJP and its allies, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Wednesday said the "Dravidian Model superfast engine will never bow before the BJP's dabba engine".
He asserted that Tamil Nadu remains safer for women compared to BJP-ruled states such as Uttar Pradesh, where he alleged crimes against women were higher.
Addressing a public meeting at Thennur Uzhavar Sandhai grounds in Tiruchy, Stalin challenged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to spend a week in Tamil Nadu to understand its development model, social justice framework, and governance outcomes.
Campaigning for DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance candidates, including KN Nehru (Tiruchy West), Inigo Irudhayaraj (Tiruchy East), and Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi (Tiruverumbur), the Chief Minister expressed confidence that the alliance would repeat its 2021 clean sweep in the district.
Stalin said Tamil Nadu must "remain Tamil Nadu" and not become “a jungle of violence like Uttar Pradesh or Manipur". He alleged that if the BJP-led NDA came to power in the State, "they will not hesitate to even rename Tamil Nadu as ‘Dakshina Pradesh’."
DMK president also accused the AIADMK, led by Edappadi K Palaniswami, of acting as a "mask" for the BJP. He alleged that the party had compromised Tamil Nadu’s interests to safeguard its leadership from central agency action and questioned why the BJP had not projected Palaniswami as a chief ministerial face.
Referring to a recent controversy in Madurai, he claimed that AIADMK leaders had removed a cutout of social reformer Periyar EV Ramasamy at the BJP’s insistence, terming it an example of political subservience. He also criticised AIADMK’s support for the Citizenship Amendment Act and the now-repealed farm laws, alleging that these moves were against minorities and farmers.
Highlighting his government’s welfare measures, Stalin said schemes such as free bus travel for women, Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thogai, the Chief Minister’s breakfast scheme, and Pudhumai Penn had improved socio-economic conditions. He added that a proposed Rs 8,000 assistance under the “Illatharasi” scheme would further support homemakers.
Listing key infrastructure developments in Tiruchy, he cited the Kalaignar Bus Terminus, drinking water projects, and upcoming initiatives such as a TIDEL Park and an Olympic Academy. "Tiruchy is growing to challenge even Chennai," he said, adding that "Projects worth Rs 26,500 crore have been implemented and are being implemented in Tiruchy."
Stalin accused the Union government of neglecting Tamil Nadu, pointing to delays in AIIMS Madurai and denial of metro rail projects. Framing the election as "Tamil Nadu versus Delhi," he urged voters to back the DMK-led alliance to ensure continued growth, social harmony, and State autonomy.
