Source The Hindu
MADURANTHAKAM, TAMIL NADU — Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially launched the National Democratic Alliance’s (NDA) election campaign in Tamil Nadu on Friday, delivering a scathing critique of the ruling DMK-led government. Addressing a massive “Mission Tamil Nadu” rally in Maduranthakam, near Chennai, the Prime Minister declared that the “countdown for the DMK’s exit has begun.”
Key Highlights of the Address
During his high-octane speech, PM Modi focused on issues ranging from administrative corruption to the state’s heritage and security.
The “CMC” Label: In a sharp rhetorical attack, the Prime Minister dubbed the DMK government the “CMC Government,” which he defined as standing for Corruption, Mafia, and Crime. He alleged that the state administration has become a vehicle for a single family rather than the public.
Welfare vs. Corruption: Modi claimed that while the Central Government has spent over ₹11 lakh crore for Tamil Nadu’s development in the last 11 years—three times more than previous administrations—the state government has diverted funds meant for the disadvantaged.
Law and Order Concerns: Evoking the legacy of the late AIADMK leader J. Jayalalithaa, the Prime Minister praised her commitment to women’s safety and law and order, contrasting it with what he described as the current “rise of drug and liquor mafias” under the Stalin administration.
Cultural Pride: On the occasion of Parakram Diwas, the PM shared insights into Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s deep links with Tamil Nadu, emphasizing the state’s role in the Indian National Army (INA).
The “Double-Engine” Pitch
The Prime Minister urged the voters to usher in a “double-engine government”—referring to the NDA being in power at both the Centre and the State. He argued that this alignment is essential to attract investment and free the state from the “clutches of dynastic politics.”
“Tamil Nadu has decided that it is time to bid farewell to the corrupt DMK government. Every vote for the NDA is a vote to free the state from the drug menace and corruption.” — PM Narendra Modi
Political Counter-Fire
The visit was met with swift opposition from Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, who questioned the timing of the Prime Minister’s frequent visits. Stalin alleged that the NDA has “continuously betrayed” the state regarding pending funds and approvals, suggesting that the Prime Minister only visits Tamil Nadu when elections are on the horizon.
Infrastructure Boost
Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister’s regional push included flagging off new Amrit Bharat Express trains, including the Thiruvananthapuram-Tambaram service, aimed at significantly enhancing connectivity between Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
