2 days ago
DMK allies' demand for more seats to be resolved through talks, says T.N. CM Stalin
DMK president and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin said the 'demand of alliance partners for more seats' would be resolved through discussions once the Assembly election date is announced.
Speaking to reporters during the launch of 'Tamil Nadu Under One Front' at Anna Arivalayam on Tuesday (July 1, 2025), he said new parties could join the DMK alliance under the current circumstances. 'When the situation arises, we will sit together and hold talks to include them,' he said, accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister and Youth Wing leader Udhayanidhi Stalin.
He said the DMK have been fully prepared for the elections for a long time. 'We have a goal of winning 200 seats. I hope we will exceed that number,' the Chief Minister said.
When asked about Union Home Minister Amit Shah's statement in Madurai that he would visit Tamil Nadu more frequently, Mr. Stalin said both Mr. Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi should visit the State more often.
'They have the habit of uttering lies during their visits to Tamil Nadu, and the people are aware of it. It will work in our favour during the elections. They should also not replace the Governor (R.N. Ravi), as he has caused more harm than good. He cannot win over the people, even if he tries to do something positive,' he said.
Regarding AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami's plan to begin a public outreach campaign from July 7, Mr. Stalin said the DMK had launched its programme long ago, and the Opposition leader was beginning only now.
He said the Tamil Nadu Under One Front initiative would cover both the election campaign and the DMK's membership drive. 'We will also explain to the people the achievements of the DMK government,' he said.
When asked whether he would visit Mr. Palaniswami's house during the campaign, the Chief Minister said it would depend on the circumstances. 'We have shared responsibilities across the party. Depending on the situation, others may visit. If I happen to be in the area, I will certainly visit his house,' he said.
Top schemes
Mr. Stalin highlighted the Chief Minister's Breakfast Scheme, Magalir Urimai Thittam, and Magalir Vidiyal Payanam Scheme as the top three schemes of the DMK government. 'We have completed 60% of the Magalir Urimai Thittam. Many forms were not filled properly, so we plan to organise a camp in September,' he said.
The Chief Minister said the DMK aimed to enroll 30% of people in each constituency as party members. 'But in many places, our party leaders have promised to enroll 40% of the people,' he said.
Though the DMK's outreach includes engaging with members of the Opposition, Mr. Stalin emphasised that the party would not force anyone to join. 'We will leave it to them,' he said.
When asked about alleged wrongdoings by officials, particularly in custodial deaths, the Chief Minister said the government takes action whenever such issues are brought to its attention. 'Even today, we have taken action against (police) officials,' he said.
