AIADMK Leader Questions Congress's Stability in DMK Coalition

Edappadi K. Palaniswami, the general secretary of AIADMK and leader of the opposition, raised concerns regarding the stability of the Congress party within the DMK-led coalition, referencing increasing speculation about Congress potentially exiting the alliance. Speaking at the Pongal festival organized by AIADMK in M. Kalipatti village of Salem district on Wednesday, Palaniswami indicated that recent political developments suggest uncertainty within the ruling coalition.

 

Earlier, Palaniswami arrived at the event via bullock cart, receiving a warm welcome from party officials, workers, and the public, who showered him with flowers. He inaugurated the Pongal festival by adding raw rice to a pot, symbolizing the traditional method of preparing Pongal with 108 pots. Following this, he enjoyed folk performances including Valli Kummi, Urumi dance, street theater, and horse dance, and distributed awards to the Jallikattu bulls showcased at the venue.

 

Palaniswami remarked that Pongal is celebrated by Tamils worldwide with the belief that 'Thai brings new beginnings.' Traditionally a rural festival, Pongal is now celebrated with equal enthusiasm in urban areas. He noted that approximately 65% of the population still relies on agriculture for their livelihood. Palaniswami stated that since the passing of party founders M.G. Ramachandran and Jayalalithaa, AIADMK has successfully implemented numerous welfare schemes. He asserted that the public is eagerly awaiting the removal of the DMK government and emphasized that AIADMK is part of a strong and victorious coalition that will secure a majority in the upcoming assembly elections and form the government.

 

While praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, Palaniswami stated that India is witnessing a robust government at the center, with Modi being recognized globally as a successful Prime Minister. He expressed confidence that AIADMK will soon wave the flag of victory. Criticizing the DMK government, Palaniswami accused it of turning Tamil Nadu into a 'state of protests,' where government employees, teachers, and nurses are demonstrating against the administration. He claimed that public dissatisfaction with the government is widespread and asserted that AIADMK will celebrate the next Pongal as the ruling party.