Amit Shah, the Union Home Minister, took sharp aim at Tamil Nadu’s ruling party, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), and its Chief Minister MK Stalin, criticizing the government's handling of law and order, corruption, and alleged anti-national activities. Speaking at the inauguration of BJP district offices across Tamil Nadu, Shah remarked, “the anti-national tendency is at all-time high in Tamil Nadu,” which prompted local unrest.
Shah's criticism did not stop there. He accused the DMK leadership of significant corruption and misgovernance, claiming, “in cases of corruption, all the leaders of the DMK hold a master’s degree.” Specific allegations included involvement in cash-for-jobs schemes and illegal mining operations, painting a grim picture of the party's integrity. “It sometimes feels as if DMK has let all the corrupts in the society join through its membership drive,” he quipped, aiming to divert attention away from pressing national issues.
The Home Minister also found time to address MK Stalin's recent assertions about central government favoritism, firmly refuting the notion with statistics. Shah stated, “There is no truth in MK Stalin's statement. The Modi government has allocated Rs 5 lakh crore to Tamil Nadu over the last five years.” This figure starkly contrasts allegations of funds being withheld, positioning the BJP as not merely responsive but generous with state resources.
MK Stalin, on the other hand, has voiced significant concerns over the delimitation process, arguing it systematically undermines states like Tamil Nadu, which he claims, has successfully managed population growth. “A democratic process should not penalise states...that have successfully managed population growth, led in development, and made significant contributions to national progress,” Stalin said. His apprehension includes fears of losing eight Lok Sabha seats due to the proposed changes, raising alarms over fair representation.
Shah attempted to assuage fears over delimitation, declaring confidently, “The Prime Minister made it clear...that no southern state will lose even one seat after delimitation.” Such commitments are strategically important as the BJP aims to consolidate its presence and influence within Tamil Nadu.
With the state elections looming, Shah boldly forecasted the BJP's victory, asserting, “The NDA government will be formed in Tamil Nadu come 2026.” He emphasized elimination of “family politics and corruption,” aiming to convey the party's reformative plans if they win. This rhetoric resonates as the BJP seeks to wrest control from stagnant leadership, promising progressive change aligned with the sentiments of everyday citizens.
Stalin has stepped up his efforts to unite political fronts against any changes perceived as detrimental to the state, calling for an all-party meeting to address the delimitation issue. He fears: “Delimitation is like a knife hanging over South India.” His proactive stance is indicative of the potential consequences he foresees, stirring unrest as political tensions rise.
The rivalry between Shah and Stalin is emblematic of larger political contests playing out across India, particularly as regional sentiments clash with central mandates. The accusations of corruption against DMK leaders resonate deeply with BJP's campaign strategy, creating fertile ground for voter discontent.
Shah's remarks serve to galvanize supporters, echoing promises to eradicate corruption and nepotism, insisting on, “removing individuals involved in anti-India activities from Tamil Nadu.” His commitment to instigate political reform aligns with the BJP's national agenda, laying out his vision for the region with his announcements, filled with strong assertions and populist rhetoric.
Though the political maneuvers are still early, Shah’s declarations aim to strike fear and undermine confidence within the DMK leadership. His commitment to end corruption, initiate effective governance, and restore “national pride” paints the BJP as the party ready to bring change where it is most needed. Political analysts will be watching closely as each side prepares for the upcoming battles at the polls and beyond.