Shashikala Criticizes DMK Government, Predicts End of Dynastic Rule in Tamil Nadu
In a recent press conference, Shashikala, a former AIADMK leader, wished the people of Tamil Nadu a Happy New Year while criticizing the ruling DMK government. She claimed that the state's dynastic rule would soon end, leading to a government that serves the public. Highlighting a rise in crime since the DMK took power, she pointed to a recent attack in Tiruttani as evidence of deteriorating law and order. Additionally, AIADMK leader R.B. Uday Kumar echoed similar concerns about governance and financial mismanagement. The AIADMK is gearing up for the upcoming elections, with discussions underway among party leaders.
Jan 1, 2026, 12:34 IST
Shashikala's New Year Message and Critique of DMK
Shashikala, a former leader of the AIADMK and once a close associate of Tamil Nadu's late Chief Minister Jayalalithaa, extended her New Year greetings to the people of Tamil Nadu on Thursday. During a press conference, she launched a sharp critique against the ruling DMK, asserting that dynastic governance in the state would soon come to an end, paving the way for a government that truly represents the people. She accused the DMK of overseeing a rise in crime since taking power in Tamil Nadu, referencing a recent attack in Tiruttani as indicative of the deteriorating law and order situation.
Shashikala expressed her heartfelt wishes for the New Year, stating that this year would mark the conclusion of the dynastic rule in Tamil Nadu and the emergence of a people's government. She highlighted that numerous criminal incidents, including the Tiruttani attack, have occurred since the DMK assumed control. The Chief Minister, who oversees the police department, has yet to respond to this incident, which she claims reflects a lack of governance capability.
Previously, AIADMK leader R.B. Uday Kumar had also criticized the DMK government, alleging a significant decline in governance standards during their tenure. He pointed out that under the DMK administration, property taxes, electricity charges, and water and waste management fees have surged to unprecedented levels. Kumar further claimed that the prices of essential goods have risen, and expressed concern over the alarming increase in sexual violence against women in Tamil Nadu, stating that the situation has become a source of shame for the state. He accused the state government of financial mismanagement, asserting that Tamil Nadu ranks first in the country for borrowing.
On Wednesday, the AIADMK convened a consultation meeting with district secretaries to discuss preparations for the upcoming Tamil Nadu elections. The meeting was chaired by Edappadi K. Palaniswami, the party's general secretary and leader of the opposition in the Tamil Nadu Assembly, at the party headquarters in Royapettah, Chennai.