E.K. Palaniswami Defends AIADMK's Alliance with BJP Amid Criticism

AIADMK's Stance on BJP Alliance

E.K. Palaniswami, the General Secretary of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), has come forward to defend his party's electoral alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He asserted that no party, regardless of its size, can dominate the AIADMK, which has governed Tamil Nadu for over 30 years.

In response to speculations about BJP's influence over AIADMK, Palaniswami emphasized that his party has a rich history of more than 50 years and has ruled Tamil Nadu for approximately 31 years, making it resilient against any external control.

The ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and several other parties, including the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), have been vocal in their criticism of AIADMK's partnership with the BJP. During a public meeting on Sunday, the former Chief Minister expressed confidence that AIADMK would emerge victorious in the 2026 assembly elections, securing a majority.

Palaniswami expressed optimism about forming a robust coalition ahead of the upcoming assembly elections, stating that the alliance with the BJP is merely the initial step. He directed criticism towards Chief Minister Stalin, questioning why he is concerned about AIADMK's collaboration with the BJP.

He remarked, 'Stalin is anxious.' Palaniswami noted that the Chief Minister seems unable to accept the alliance between AIADMK and BJP. He further indicated that once AIADMK returns to power, cases against DMK leaders will be revisited, asserting, 'The Palaniswami you will see now will be different from before.'

The AIADMK leader accused the DMK government of widespread corruption across various departments, including registration offices. He claimed, 'There is no place free from corruption. Commission, extortion, and corruption are all hallmarks of the DMK government. This is the greatest achievement of the DMK's four years in power.'