BJP Tamil Nadu President K. Annamalai will be addressing a gathering in Coimbatore about the role of professionals in politics. Scheduled for 6 April 2024, from 4 pm to 7 pm, the event promises to bring together professionals from diverse backgrounds to discuss their potential role in politics. This event is co-presented by the Samachar Manyata Association for Research and Training (SMaRT), a collective platform for nationalist media in association with The Nationalist Madrasi.
Annamalai’s transition from law enforcement to politics has garnered attention, making him a fitting figure for this occasion.
Joining Annamalai are a lineup of distinguished speakers representing various fields. Murali, a biotechnologist, will share insights into the intersection of science and politics. Prof. Dr. Murali Panchapagesa Muthuswamy, Chairman of Jananom Group of companies & Elive Blo Inc., brings his vast experience in CEO roles and expertise in biotechnology and pharmaceuticals to the discussion.
Rangaraj Pandey, a prominent journalist turned media entrepreneur, will provide his perspective on the role of professionals in politics, drawing from his extensive experience in the media industry. Badri Seshadri, the driving force behind Kizhakku Pathippagam, a renowned publisher specializing in Tamil literature, will offer insights from the literary world.
Adding to the diverse panel is RB Ramesh, a recipient of the prestigious Dronacharya Award in chess coaching. Ramesh’s expertise in nurturing talent and his experience in competitive sports bring a unique angle to the discussion on professionals entering politics.
The event will take place at Sri Sai Vivaha, Uppilipalayam, Coimbatore. Those interested in participating can register by contacting via WhatsApp at 76070 54125 or 90735 48247. Smart sponsors and arranges this insightful event aimed at exploring the potential contributions of professionals in shaping the political landscape.
“Professionals In Politics” promises to be an engaging platform for dialogue and reflection on the role of professionals in driving positive change in society through political engagement.
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As the polling date for the Lok Sabha elections in Tamil Nadu approaches, political parties in the state are intensifying their campaigns. In the Perambalur constituency, the DMK (Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam) has fielded Arun Nehru, son of Minister KN Nehru, as their candidate. However, recent events during Arun Nehru’s campaign have highlighted challenges for the DMK in the region.
During a campaign event in V Kalathur, an area with a Muslim majority, Arun Nehru was accompanied by Perambalur DMK MLA Prabhakaran. However, instead of receiving a warm welcome, they faced a barrage of questions from the gathered crowd. Residents voiced their frustration, questioning why they only show up during elections and not after winning MLA seats. They questioned, “Why are you coming here only for asking votes, did you even come here to thank us after winning MLA elections?”. They even questioned, “What did you do for the people of the constituency?”
The MP candidate, Arun Nehru, seemingly disheartened by the reception, abruptly ended his campaign and left the area. Reports suggest he expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of support from the local populace for his DMK colleagues.
Meanwhile, BJP candidate Parivendhan is gaining traction in the region with promises of tangible benefits for the constituency. Parivendhan has pledged free medical care for 1500 families and the initiation of a railway project for Perambalur. His promises have resonated with the people, who have shown a welcoming attitude towards his campaign.
DMK is considered as a force only in TV debates and YouTube channel studious in reality they will be on the third place…. pic.twitter.com/Ynmz7c0W5C
— Vishwatma 🇮🇳 ( மோடியின் குடும்பம் ) (@HLKodo) April 3, 2024
This follows the pattern of the public openly showing their emotions over their increasing dissatisfaction with the ruling DMK. In the past week, several such incidents occurred in Tamil Nadu:
South Chennai DMK MP Tamizhachi Thangapandian was turned away by the residents of Mylapore over unfulfilled promises and her long absence.
Central Chennai DMK MP Dayanidhi Maran faced hard questions from his constituents over unfulfilled promises.
North Chennai DMK MP Kalanidhi Veerasamy also faced similar treatment by the public especially over his absence after the devastating floods following Cyclone Michaung.
DMK MLA VG Rajendran, an assembly member, who was campaigning for Congress candidate Sasikanth Senthil in Tiruvallur faced a barrage of questions and opposition from the people.
DMK candidate Thanga Tamil Selvan‘s campaign in Theni was interrupted by a youth to voice concerns about the lack of road facilities in his area for over two decades.
Karur Congress MP Jothimani also faced tough questions from constituents during her campaign in Kodankipatti Adi Dravidar residential area.
DMK erode candidate Prakash was given cold welcome by public by displaying black flags on houses, gardens, and commercial establishments in over 10 villages.
A group of women campaigning for their DMK candidate Ganapathy P Rajkumar faced intense questioning from local residents, resulting in their dismissal in Coimbatore.
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In a recent letter dated 2 April 2024, VK Sasikala, the General Secretary of the AIADMK, expressed strong support for the Kachchathivu issue. Highlighting the significance of the matter, Sasikala emphasized the need to safeguard the rights of Sri Lankan Tamils and ensure the retrieval of Kachchathivu, which she asserts belongs to Indian soil.
Sasikala pointedly criticized the DMK and Congress parties, holding them accountable for neglecting the interests of Tamil Nadu fishermen and failing to address the ongoing confrontations with the Sri Lankan Navy. She asserted that the revolutionary leader, the late Jayalalithaa, ardently advocated for the recovery of Kachchathivu, filing a case in the Supreme Court and spearheading resolutions in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly.
In her missive, Sasikala recounted historical events surrounding Kachchathivu, tracing its ownership back to the Sethupathi kings of Ramanathapuram and condemning its cession to Sri Lanka in 1974 by the Indian government. She reiterated the necessity of restoring Kachchathivu to Indian territory to ensure the livelihood and security of Tamil Nadu fishermen.
Furthermore, Sasikala disclosed efforts made towards resolving the issue, including obtaining permission for Tamil devotees to participate in the festival of St. Anthony’s Church on Kachchathivu Island in 2016. She lamented the unfulfilled implementation of a comprehensive action plan devised during Jayalalithaa’s tenure, citing her demise as a setback.
Asserting the need for a robust central government and a determined Prime Minister, Sasikala assured that under their leadership, efforts to retrieve Kachchathivu and protect the rights of Sri Lankan Tamils would be prioritized.
Since being chosen as the Bharatiya Janata Party’s Lok Sabha candidate for the Coimbatore constituency, Annamalai, the President of the Tamil Nadu BJP, has embarked on a whirlwind tour. He consistently engages with the media, providing periodic responses to their inquiries.
Similarly, during one such press meeting, he responded to a question on Udhayanidhi Stalin calling Prime Minister Modi “29 Paisa Modi”, Annamalai said, “So Udhayanidhi Stalin’s name must be Beer, TASMAC, Liquor. This is Udhayanidhi Stalin’s name. Shall we call him Drug Udhayanidhi Stalin? Or should we call him Beer Udhayanidhi Stalin or Beer Udhayanidhi Stalin? If I say all this, people will mistake us. Cadre is calling him by different names. So we will call Udhayanidhi Stalin “Drug Udhayanidhi Stalin” from tomorrow. If he is ok, ask him to come to the battlefield, we are ready. We are being silent to maintain decency and respect. If he says 29 Paisa Modi once more tomorrow, our cadre will start calling him Drug Udhayanidhi Stalin. He has several names, surely we will use one of them. He should give respect to get respect.”
Udhayanidhi Stalin while campaigning in Ponneri for Congress candidate Sashikanth Senthil, who is contesting from the Tiruvallur constituency, alleged that Edappadi Palaniswami, the former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and current AIADMK General Secretary, made derogatory remarks against him. He went on to say Edappadi Palanisami had no spine when it came to countering Modi or Sasikala. He stated that EPS would fall flat at Modi’s feet. Udhayanidhi also alleged that, “The convergence of IPL interests and the AIADMK is evident, with various teams represented within the party. In light of this, I’ve symbolically renamed Prime Minister Modi as “29 Paisa Modi,” signifying his perceived inability to provide full value for taxpayers’ money. With just 29 paise returned for every rupee taxed, it’s apt to discard his former title.”
Interestingly, the social media platform X started seeing the hashtag #Drugnidhi trending after Annamalai’s press meet.
இதுக்கு பேரு தான் வாய குடுத்து வாங்கி கட்டிக்கிறது. இது ஒண்ணும் 2019 இல்ல, எல்லா வினைக்கும் எதிர் வினை உண்டு.#DrugNidhipic.twitter.com/4bMazO7Igv
In Tamil Nadu, there’s a noticeable trend where individuals seeking fame strategically use Annamalai as a means to gain publicity. Annamalai, the Tamil Nadu BJP president, is known for his articulate criticisms. In line with this, recently it appears that the Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) leader Seeman has attempted to stir controversy by insinuating that Annamalai was a “sleeper cell” operating on his behalf. This move seems designed to divert attention towards Seeman and keep him in the spotlight, leveraging Annamalai’s reputation for publicity.
During a recent gathering in Madurai introducing NTK Candidate Sathya Devi on 31 March 2024, Seeman, the Chief Coordinator of NTK, engaged in a heated exchange with Annamalai, a leader of the BJP, following the BJP’s revival of the Katchatheevu island dispute. Seeman criticized the BJP for resurrecting the issue, which dates back to its cession to Sri Lanka under the Indira Gandhi-led government. He accused the BJP of suddenly awakening to the matter just before the Lok Sabha election, portraying it as a calculated political maneuver.
Seeman said, “Those who said that I am the B-team of BJP, pay attention to the fact that my B-team is the BJP. They speak about Eelam, you too go and talk, isn’t there a big gap between truth and lies? This didn’t work. So what do we do now, they talk about ‘En Mann En Makkal’ and Tamil nationalism. Annamalai is my brother, I sent him in as a sleeper cell. Lakhs of brothers work from here, only one brother who works from within and makes me world famous because both of us have the same blood, Tamil mother blood, hence we both travel with the same thought.
If you say from there ‘En Mann En Makkal’, what politics is this? If En Mann En Makkal happens in Karnataka it refers to India, if it happens in Bihar it refers to India, if it happens in Gujarat it refers India, if it happens in Tamil Nadu it means the Tamil nation I have created, for whom he is working now? Now he is also asking for votes for me.“
During Annamalai’s campaign in Coimbatore, reporters questioned whether Seeman’s assertion that “Annamalai is now Seeman’s sleeper cell” holds any truth. Annamalai casually with a smiling face mocked, “Seeman has no vote and symbol, now he is using Annamalai. Now what Annamalai is Seeman’s sleeper cell, is it? Or is Seeman is Annamalai’s sleeper cell?”
“As far as Seeman is concerned, he knows, whose side the youth is, whose side the women are, knows whose side the mothers are. Today BJP stands out, our National Democratic Alliance stands out, people also know that Modi is returning to power, all the support is coming for the National Democratic Alliance. So I have already said, Seeman will talk about all this, don’t take it too seriously.”
VIGIL, a public forum for discussions and public dialogue, was an initiative of various public-spirited citizens of Chennai and was active during the 1990s until 2010. Various intellectuals and luminaries like Swami Dayananda Saraswati have graced occasions of VIGIL. Once again, VIGIL looks forward to launch renowned Bangalore-based historian Dr. Vikram Sampath’s latest book, ‘Waiting for Shiva: Unearthing the Truth of Kashi’s Gyan Vapi’, in Chennai. The event will be held on 8 April 2024 will take place at 6 PM at Narada Gana Sabha on TTK Road, Alwarpet, Chennai.
The book will be launched in the presence of esteemed guests including S Gurumurthy, chief editor of Thuglak, Padma Vibhushan danseuse Padma Subramanyam, and Padma Shri vocalist Aruna Sairam.
The book ‘Waiting for Shiva’ meticulously explores the historical significance and sanctity of Kashi, revered as the dwelling place of Lord Shiva in the form of Vishweshwara, or Vishwanath. The book narrates the saga of the temple which embodies the soul of the city and its resilience against adversities. Despite facing numerous attempts at demolition, the temple has endured, symbolizing the enduring spirit of the Indian civilization. Dr. Sampath meticulously documents the tumultuous events in the temple’s history, including the devastating blow it suffered at the hands of Aurangzeb in 1669. The book by Vikram Sampath revisits the complex history of this disputed site, shedding light on long-suppressed truths and unveiling the secrets hidden within Gyan Vapi.
Dr. Vikram Sampath is no stranger to the Indic wing. He is a renowned historian based in Bangalore, and has authored nine highly acclaimed books, including “Splendours of Royal Mysore: The Untold Story of the Wodeyars,” “Voice of the Veena: S. Balachander,” and “Women of the Records and Indian Classical Music and the Gramophone.” His biographies, such as the two-volume work on Savarkar and “Bravehearts of Bharat: Vignettes from Indian History,” have achieved national bestseller status. In recognition of his contributions, Sampath was elected a fellow of the prestigious Royal Historical Society in 2021. He has received several awards, including the Sahitya Akademi’s first Yuva Puraskar in English literature and the ARSC International Award for excellence in historical research in New York for his book “My Name Is Gauhar Jaan: The Life and Times of a Musician,” which has also been adapted into a play.
Those interested in attending the event can register through this link – tinyurl.com/2s3pndrx
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As the election campaign intensifies, an unexpected development has emerged. A POCSO case that was filed against Congress scion Rahul Gandhi has again made headlines.
Netizens wondered if this was just speculation or actual news. Upon digging a bit, it was found to be indeed true. A POCSO case was filed against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.
The case stems from an incident in 2021 when Rahul Gandhi allegedly disclosed the identity of a victim protected under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, and her family members on Twitter. NCPCR Chief Priyank Kanoongo stated that a case was registered against Gandhi under Section 23 of the POCSO Act, Section 74 of the Juvenile Justice Act, and Section 128 A of the Indian Penal Code.
He had visited the family of the nine-year-old Dalit girl who was raped, murdered, and hastily cremated by the perpetrators. Gandhi tweeted a picture with the girl’s parents. Following this, the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) issued a notice to Twitter India regarding a photo shared by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, which allegedly revealed the identity of the family members of a rape victim, violating the POCSO Act and Juvenile Justice Care and Protection of Children Act. The NCPCR requested Twitter (now X) to remove the post and asked the Delhi Police to take action against Gandhi.
A complaint was also filed against Rahul Gandhi by a Delhi-based lawyer, resulting in an FIR against him. The photo in question showed Gandhi with the parents of a Dalit minor who was allegedly raped and killed. In his post, with the image, he wrote, “The parents’ tears are saying only one thing – their daughter, the daughter of this country, deserves justice. And I am with them on this path of justice.”
Despite Twitter’s claim of taking down the tweet, NCPCR argued that the offense of disclosing sensitive information still stands.
This POCSO case that was filed in 2021 looms over Rahul Gandhi’s head.
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The Tirunelveli Lok Sabha Constituency encompasses nine coastal villages, boasting a combined voting population exceeding 30,000 individuals. Notable among these villages are Panchal, Perumanal, Idindakarai, Kududathali, Uvari, Kuthankuzhi, and Koopapani.
In the current electoral landscape, with Congress nominee C Robert Bruce vying for the seat, it appears that the DMK has shown limited interest in the constituency. To safeguard against potential vote loss, Tamil Nadu Fisheries Minister Anitha Radhakrishnan has been delegated responsibility by DMK party leader MK Stalin as the overseer of fishing communities within the Tirunelveli district.
Anitha Radhakrishnan embarked on the customary campaign trail within these villages, advocating for their alliance candidate Robert. However, tensions arose when Radhakrishnan sought votes in the Kudankulam area, where villagers expressed discontent.
Following recent floods in December that ravaged Tirunelveli and Tuticorin districts, fishermen from Tirunelveli promptly mobilized their boats for rescue efforts. In recognition of their valor, the government pledged financial aid of ₹22,500 per individual. Regrettably, this assistance has yet to materialize, prompting frustration among the affected communities.
Moreover, in Mukkudal, fishermen confronted Anitha Radhakrishnan, alleging discrepancies in the distribution of ₹1,000 entitled under the “Mahalir Urimai Thogai” scheme meant for women. This discontent underscores broader grievances within the fishing community, highlighting the need for prompt and equitable redressal of their concerns.
Amid the crowd, an angry woman exclaimed, “Hear this! What did you say when you came to seek votes? You said this is for all women. Now half of us didn’t receive it. Tell us when we will get it.” Unexpectedly put in the spot by the village women, Minister Anitha Radhakrishnan responded, “Everyone will receive it after the election” Another woman from the crowd remarked, “It’s like that until you get votes” Minister Anitha Radhakrishnan retorted, “I’m saying that you will receive it after the elections, what shall I do if you don’t have the trust?”
Another individual emerged from the back of the crowd to complain to the minister about the reduced water supply in Mukkudal town panchayat; previously two hours, now only one. Overwhelmed by the barrage of questioning from the locals, the minister swiftly retreated, fleeing the scene in his car. As the minister hastily departed, the angered women declared, “We won’t cast our votes. We’re asking so much, see, is he giving an answer? No one should come seeking votes here in the town; they only win because of us. I’m telling you, we won’t cast our votes.”
Coastal communities have borne the brunt of significant sea erosion, resulting in damage to residential structures. A plea has been put forth for the installation of curved section nets to mitigate these effects. Notably, fishing communities in Tuticorin district have been exerting pressure on Minister Anitha Radhakrishnan, urging for the construction of ramps.
Tamil Nadu encompasses 13 coastal districts housing 561 fishing villages. Criticism has long been directed towards the DMK for neglecting the political representation of fishermen. Jennifer Chandran was the solitary fisherman from Tuticorin to secure a position in the cabinet under DMK’s tenure from 1996 to 2001. However, following this period, the significance accorded to fishermen diminished. There is a particular outcry for the Fisheries Minister to be appointed from the fishing community. It is alleged this time around that major political parties, including the DMK, have neglected to nominate fishermen.
This follows the pattern of the public openly showing their emotions over their increasing dissatisfaction with the ruling DMK. In the past week, several such incidents occurred in Chennai:
South Chennai DMK MP Tamizhachi Thangapandian was turned away by the residents of Mylapore over unfulfilled promises and her long absence.
Central Chennai DMK MP Dayanidhi Maran faced hard questions from his constituents over unfulfilled promises.
North Chennai DMK MP Kalanidhi Veerasamy also faced similar treatment by the public especially over his absence after the devastating floods following Cyclone Michaung.
DMK MLA VG Rajendran, an assembly member, who was campaigning for Congress candidate Sasikanth Senthil in Tiruvallur faced a barrage of questions and opposition from the people.
DMK candidate Thanga Tamil Selvan‘s campaign in Theni was interrupted by a youth to voice concerns about the lack of road facilities in his area for over two decades.
Karur Congress MP Jothimani also faced tough questions from constituents during her campaign in Kodankipatti Adi Dravidar residential area.
Kamaraj hailed as the father of education in Tamil Nadu, remains a towering figure embraced by all generations, transcending political affiliations. Despite his relatively brief tenure from 1954 to 1963, his legacy endures. Even today, politicians evoke his era, promising “Kamaraj governance” to win votes. Kamaraj, known for his administrative prowess and his role as a kingmaker in politics, remains a revered figure in Tamil Nadu. Despite his lack of formal education, Kamaraj, while serving as the chief minister of Madras, championed initiatives such as free education for the underprivileged and the implementation of the free Midday Meal Scheme. Remarkably, he never completed his own schooling. In recognition of his contributions, he was posthumously honored with India’s highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna, in 1976. US Vice President Hubert Humphrey hailed Kamaraj as “one of the foremost political figures across the free world” in January 1966.
Today, we are reacalling Kamaraj because of a viral video on social media, featuring NTK chief coordinator Seeman discussing instances where the late former Chief Minister Karunanidhi insulted and mocked Kamaraj. Seeman mentions three occasions in the video where Karunanidhi insulted Kamaraj. On one occasion, when Karunanidhi conversed with a leader and inquired about the leader’s whereabouts, the leader responded by mentioning that he had visited ‘Perunthalaivar‘ (Tall Leader) Kamaraj. This remark sowed seeds of jealousy in Karunanidhi to designate all panchayat council chiefs as Perunthalaivar. Seeman proceeds to recount another incident where Karunanidhi disparaged Kamaraj’s visit to Russia by stating, “Earlier we used to send buffalo skins to Russia, now we have sent buffalo itself to Russia.” Additionally, Seeman recalls another incident where Karunanidhi referred to Kamaraj as the “Son of a woman who sells dried fish in Virudhunagar.”
Certainly, the three incidents mentioned above are indeed factual. During his tenure as Chief Minister, the late DMK leader Karunanidhi mandated that all panchayat council chiefs be addressed as “Perunthalaivar.” However, this directive was rescinded on 3 April 1987 after MG Ramachandran (MGR) assumed power. Nevertheless, in certain areas, the practice persists.
Kamaraj, in his capacity as the chairman of the Indian National Congress, embarked on a visit to the Soviet Union. Initially, there seemed to be some uncertainty on the part of the Soviet government regarding how to regard Kamaraj. However, they eventually concluded that despite his official position, he held significant importance in India at that time. During his trip, Kamaraj visited Dushanbe, Volgograd, and Leningrad. His meetings with Aleksei Kosygin, the Soviet premier, and Leonid Brezhnev, the General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union, were well-documented events. During his speech, Karunanidhi made derogatory and racially charged remarks about Kamaraj, referring to him as a buffalo due to the color of his skin.
Other Occasions Where Karunanidhi Derogated Kamaraj
On 8 February 1957, in Murasoli magazine, Karunanidhi, serving as the chief editor at the time, published a controversial cartoon that depicted a derogatory portrayal. The cartoon featured a black woman undergoing makeup to resemble Kamaraj, with another figure representing Prime Minister Nehru as the makeup artist. The caption accompanying the cartoon read, “The true Tamilian is getting ready for vote hunting.” This portrayal aimed to ridicule Kamaraj for his deliberate decision not to marry. Karunanidhi ridiculed him by likening him to a woman dressed in a saree and wearing a nose pin. This has been widely condemned as one of the most disgraceful instances of mockery in political history, stemming from jealousy over Kamaraj’s effective governance.
In the same Murasoli magazine dated 8 November 1957, Karunanidhi portrayed Kamaraj wearing a saree in a cartoon. In this one cartoon depicted Kamaraj seeking favors by massaging the legs of EV Ramasamy. In a subsequent cartoon, Karunanidhi depicted Kamaraj forcefully driving away EV Ramasamy, with a caption titled “True Tamilans, True treachery.” Once again, he created a cartoon mocking Kamaraj by portraying him as a woman.
In the 1956 Pongal Malar edition of Murasoli, Karunanidhi featured a cartoon series titled ‘Kamarajar Puranam‘ where he portrayed Kamaraj as prostrating before a Brahmin. This one was titled “A Brahmin Slave.”
Additionally, another cartoon depicted Kamaraj as a porter carrying the agendas of Prime Minister Nehru titled “Mere worker for North Indians“, which not only insulted both leaders but also demeaned the profession of the downtrodden who earn their livelihood through hard labor. Karunanidhi promoted a misleading narrative among the impoverished population of Tamil Nadu, portraying himself as a constructive force. However, in truth, Kamaraj held significant political sway as a kingmaker. His renowned “K plan” garnered praise, with even Prime Minister Nehru seeking counsel from Kamaraj. Following Nehru’s passing, Kamaraj played a pivotal role in determining who would assume the prime ministerial position in Delhi.
In 1970, amidst the Murasoli controversy surrounding the Pongal Malar, Karunanidhi published a cartoon that not only disrespected Kamaraj but also offended Hindu sentiments. In the cartoon, Kamaraj was depicted as a semi-clothed woman resembling a Hindu goddess, and Kakkan, another esteemed leader of the Congress known for his neutrality, was portrayed as a male Hindu deity. This portrayal was titled “A handmade dirty Pillayar,” adding insult to injury for many Hindus. Kakkan, hailing from a Scheduled Caste background, rose to the position of Home Minister. Despite his stature, even in his passing, he relied on a government hospital for his medical care. Surprisingly, he lacked financial resources at the time of his demise. The DMK, which boasts of advocating for social justice, ironically subjected such a man to derogatory caricatures, despite his significant contribution to the state.
The DMK, particularly under the leadership of Karunanidhi, has been cunningly focused on establishing their dynasty’s perpetual rule, ensuring that no other entity or ideology can rival theirs. This ambition has been meticulously sustained over five decades, exemplified by Karunanidhi’s refusal to permit a memorial for Kamaraj on Marina Beach, despite widespread pressure from various leaders. This illustrates Karunanidhi’s jealousy, as he seeks to monopolize praise and spotlight in Tamil Nadu, deterring any potential contenders from gaining recognition.
So even @the_hindu quoting party colleagues of #Kamaraj says #Karunanidhi turned down request for a memorial on Marina Wondering what Vikatan based their article on. MuKa may have praised Kamaraj but refused Memorial on Marina was my point
During Kamaraj’s tenure as Chief Minister, often referred to as the golden era, significant strides were made in education and infrastructure development. Under his leadership, the local education rate soared from a meager 7% during the colonial era to a commendable 37% after his reforms. These reforms not only increased the number of schools but also focused on enhancing educational standards. Measures such as extending the number of working days to 200, reducing unnecessary holidays, and devising syllabi to accommodate various abilities were implemented.
Additionally, Kamaraj, alongside Bishnuram Medhi, the Governor, played pivotal roles in establishing prestigious institutions like IIT Madras in 1959. In the realm of irrigation, major schemes were undertaken, resulting in the construction of dams and canals across various regions including Bhavani, Vaigai, and Amaravathi. These projects significantly expanded cultivable land, with notable successes such as the Lower Bhavani Dam in Erode district, which brought over 200,000 acres under cultivation.
Furthermore, Kamaraj’s era witnessed the inception of several industrial ventures with substantial investments. Projects like Neyveli Lignite Corporation, BHEL at Trichy, and Manali Refinery marked milestones in industrial development. Moreover, industries such as paper, sugar, chemicals, and cement flourished during this period. His retirement marked a remarkable nine years of service as the chief minister, setting an unmatched record in the history of Madras State. While subsequent chief ministers may have served longer in cumulative terms, none have achieved the level of uninterrupted tenure that Kamaraj held during his time in office.
A figure such as Kamaraj will be eternally honored and revered by people across generations, despite attempts by politicians like Karunanidhi to overshadow his legacy by naming infrastructure projects after their own family members, such actions cannot conceal the genuine patriotism embodied by individuals like Kamaraj. When Kamaraj initiated the opening of irrigation canals to supply water to farmers for agricultural purposes, Karunanidhi, on the other hand, facilitated the proliferation of liquor shops, exacerbating the misery of the poor by providing unrestricted access to alcohol.
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In a viral video circulating on social media, a group of women campaigning for their DMK candidate Ganapathy P Rajkumar faced intense questioning from local residents, resulting in their dismissal. This setback not only happened to the group but also to DMK incumbent MPs and MLAs across various constituencies in Tamil Nadu.
In the video, a female resident of Coimbatore is seen voicing her frustration directly to a DMK Block Deputy Secretary who sought votes, highlighting the dismal state of the local administration. She questioned the audacity of their visit amidst the glaring inadequacies in the corporation’s services, expressing disbelief at their boldness in seeking support., “Look at the Masakalipalayam road, how is it? Please look at it. Come and see how many days before we got water. See if someone is picking up the trash. What is the justification for coming to ask for votes without doing all this?”.
Then taking a dig on the ruling DMK in the state she questioned, “How much have you raised the current bill, we pay up without retaliating, if you say fifty thousand ,it is fifty thousand. There is no one to respond. Tell me, now why have you come to seek votes no chance, please don’t come seeking votes.”
Another woman, who was recording on her mobile phone, questioned, “What has your leader achieved? What promises have you fulfilled?Aren’t you ashamed to seek votes for the DMK? They’ve wreaked havoc everywhere, they will destroy everyone. Don’t solicit votes for them. I assure you, even your family will suffer if you persist in supporting them,” she asserted.
In the 2024 Lok Sabha, there’s a noticeable shift in the atmosphere, characterized by voter discontent with incumbent leaders or the government. People are boldly questioning candidates and expressing their frustration openly. It’s uplifting to witness this change in the public attitude.
Coimbatore is currently immersed in the fervor of upcoming Lok Sabha 2024 elections, with high anticipation gripping the constituency. The atmosphere is charged as candidates vigorously campaign to secure support and position themselves favorably. The prominent contenders for the seat in Coimbatore include Annamalai, the Tamil Nadu BJP president, Ganapathy P Rajkumar from DMK, Singai G Ramachandran representing AIADMK, and Kalamani Jeganathan from NTK.
Among these contenders, Annamalai has garnered significant attention, particularly with the BJP’s decision to field him. His previous track record as a competent leader, evident in his effective execution of strategies, constructive ideas, and administrative prowess, has garnered him considerable support. This sentiment is further amplified by his recent campaign endeavors, notably the “En Mann En Makkal” yatra across Tamil Nadu, where his efficiency was widely observed by the populace.
This follows the pattern of the public openly showing their emotions over their increasing dissatisfaction with the ruling DMK. In the past week, several such incidents occurred in Chennai:
South Chennai DMK MP Tamizhachi Thangapandian was turned away by the residents of Mylapore over unfulfilled promises and her long absence.
Central Chennai DMK MP Dayanidhi Maran faced hard questions from his constituents over unfulfilled promises.
North Chennai DMK MP Kalanidhi Veerasamy also faced similar treatment by the public especially over his absence after the devastating floods following Cyclone Michaung.
DMK MLA VG Rajendran, an assembly member, who was campaigning for Congress candidate Sasikanth Senthil in Tiruvallur faced a barrage of questions and opposition from the people.
DMK candidate Thanga Tamil Selvan‘s campaign in Theni was interrupted by a youth to voice concerns about the lack of road facilities in his area for over two decades.
Karur Congress MP Jothimani also faced tough questions from constituents during her campaign in Kodankipatti Adi Dravidar residential area.
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