AIADMK Leader Predicts Victory in 2026 Elections Amidst Allegations Against DMK
AIADMK's Promises for Future Elections
The leader of the opposition in the Tamil Nadu Assembly and AIADMK General Secretary, Edappadi Palaniswami, has asserted that the coalition will secure a significant victory in the upcoming 2026 elections. He also accused the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government of failing to address incidents of sexual harassment. Speaking at the AIADMK women's conference in Kallakurichi, Palaniswami criticized Chief Minister M.K. Stalin for allegedly taking credit for initiatives proposed by the AIADMK.
Allegations Against the Current Government
Palaniswami expressed confidence that the AIADMK coalition would triumph in the 2026 elections. He claimed that Stalin had recently visited Kallakurichi district and misrepresented facts. According to him, the Chief Minister is now unveiling projects introduced by the AIADMK and falsely attributing them to his administration. He also mentioned that incidents of sexual harassment are occurring under the current regime. These comments followed Stalin's inauguration of development projects worth over ₹1,700 crores in Kallakurichi.
Criticism of BJP and DMK's Governance
During the event, Palaniswami harshly criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), stating that Tamil Nadu has emerged as a model for inclusive development under the Dravidian governance system. Stalin highlighted the state's progress, claiming it has fostered a peaceful environment where religious extremists do not thrive. He announced that laptops with AI subscriptions would be provided to 2 million students. Palaniswami countered that during the AIADMK's rule, the growth rate never reached even 5%, framing it as a challenge and asserting that Tamil Nadu has deteriorated under a decade of AIADMK governance.
Stalin's Vision for Tamil Nadu
Stalin emphasized that the Dravidian government has ensured social justice, empowered women, and created opportunities for youth, while also improving infrastructure and welfare schemes. He insisted that despite repeated attempts by the central government to hinder Tamil Nadu's development, the state has continued to make progress.