M. K. Stalin on Saturday launched a sharp attack on the BJP-led Union government, accusing it of spreading “saffron lies” about Tamil Nadu’s development while urging voters to back the DMK-led alliance in the upcoming elections.
“Saffron lies worse than blatant lies”
Addressing a large rally in Tiruppatur, Stalin took aim at Union minister Piyush Goyal for allegedly misrepresenting the state’s progress.
“We have heard of ‘green lies’—blatant lies. But this is a ‘saffron lie’ that goes even beyond that,” Stalin said, adding that despite strong rankings by the Centre itself, BJP leaders continue to claim that Tamil Nadu is lagging.
He emphasised that the state ranks high in industrial production and textile exports, and stands among the top in GDP and per capita income.
Attack on BJP and AIADMK
Targeting the opposition, Stalin said that voting for any party other than the DMK alliance would indirectly benefit the BJP.
“A vote for others is effectively a vote for BJP,” he claimed, accusing the AIADMK of compromising Tamil Nadu’s autonomy.
“Even if the AIADMK wins, it will only pave the way for a BJP government here,” he alleged.
Questions over Keezhadi and Tamil pride
Stalin also questioned why Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other BJP leaders did not visit the Keezhadi excavation site despite campaigning nearby.
“Why does the historical pride of Tamils taste bitter to you?” he asked, invoking regional identity and heritage.
‘Dravidian Model 2.0’ promises
Unveiling welfare schemes under what he called “Dravidian Model 2.0,” Stalin announced several promises aimed at women, students, and farmers.
He said women would receive ₹8,000 coupons under the ‘Illatharasi’ scheme to buy household appliances. He also promised to double the monthly assistance under the ‘Magalir Urimai Thogai’ scheme to ₹2,000.
“Just as Kalaignar fulfilled his promises, this government will deliver on its commitments,” Stalin said, referring to his father and former CM M. Karunanidhi.
He further announced plans to provide laptops to 35 lakh college students by 2030 and increase paddy procurement prices to ₹3,500 per quintal.
Push for state autonomy
Earlier, at another rally in Pudukkottai, Stalin reiterated his stand on protecting Tamil Nadu’s autonomy and language policy.
“No amount of financial pressure will make us abandon the two-language policy,” he said, taking a swipe at the Centre.
Final pitch to voters
Closing his speech, Stalin framed the चुनाव as a choice between progress and what he described as “jungle rule” in BJP-ruled states.
“You must decide whether you want a progressive Tamil Nadu or the kind of governance seen elsewhere,” he said, urging voters to support the DMK-led alliance to continue “pro-people governance.”
