Every election is determined by the people who show up
– Larry J. Sabato
As Tamil Nadu goes for urban local body polls, all focus is on the dynamic BJP Tamil Nadu President K. Annamalai, who is at the helm, grabbing eyeballs wherever he goes. In the words of John F. Kennedy, “Leadership and learning are indispensable.” The young leader has learned that occupying a leadership position and leading are entirely different things in a short span. Through motivating the workers and volunteers, connecting with voters, and inspiring a sense of shared objectives, he has won many hearts.
Meanwhile, what is it about Annamalai that irks the hardcore Dravidian followers? Is it the fact that he is well-read, unlike most of their leaders? Or his ability to refute false propaganda, be it political, media, or otherwise with facts? Does his calm and steady personality rile those who engage in mindless trolling? Or is it his attitude to serve people with humility that bothers them? It’s been quite a while that Tamil Nadu has seen a well-meaning politician in the fray. His entry may bode well in a state that has been grappling to come to terms with the passing away of two of its tallest leaders in the last few years.
It is no secret that the ruling DMK party with a long history steeped in corruption and nepotism was elected solely based on a power void in the AIADMK camp. For a long time, the BJP in Tamil Nadu was treated as a pariah. The people were red-pilled into believing that the party meant no good and was against the Tamil culture. No amount of coaxing and cajoling could reverse the narrative. Until now.
The BJP government with PM Modi has done exceedingly well on the national scene. Most of the central government schemes have reached the intended targets. A knowledgeable leader like Annamalai, with no political baggage and a proven track record of public service, is a welcome addition to the drab political setting of Tamil Nadu. Now his job is to convince the voters that BJP will replicate the model at the state level. It is a big ask as Tamilians need to rewire their entire psyche. Though it may seem impossible little ripples do make big waves. For once, the urban local body elections happening after a gap of ten years may end up throwing a few surprises. BJP is testing its ground strength in the field without an alliance. With the electorate disillusioned by unfulfilled promises of DMK and a leadership vacuum at the AIADMK, the party workers are fired up as they sense an opportunity to make a dent. People are also now aware of the importance of local body elections and that their next-door councilor need not necessarily be from the ruling party to accede to the public request and needs. This is their chance to elect the friendly local leader who is committed to improving their living conditions.
With Annamalai traversing far and wide in the state, the reception has been fantastic. Erudite, articulate, and humorous, he is a star crowd puller. On social media platforms, be it Facebook, Twitter or Instagram his message resonates with all sections; men, women and youth. There is much discussion centered around his personality as well as views. On hot topics of debate people across the board are standing up for him. On ground his meetings are well-attended, and people gather in large numbers to listen to his vision. Examples galore of people taking to politics encouraged by him. A namesake of Tamil Nadu CM Stalin expressed that he was disappointed with the divisive policies of DMK. Though his father is a staunch supporter, he chose to support and be a candidate of BJP as Annamalai inspired him. Kashiffa Syed, a young candidate, voiced that she decided to enter politics as Annamalai is her role model. Shobana, another candidate, has gone a step further and printed her promises to the public on bond paper!
As Tiruvallur states,
அடுக்கி வரினும் அழிவிலான் உற்ற
(adukki varinum azhivilaan utra)
இடுக்கண் இடுக்கட் படும்.
(idukkan idukkat padum)
Circumstances maketh man. Strong leaders are entrepreneurs of circumstances.
The coming urban local body polls, as citizens head to the nearest booth to cast a vote, they will need to weigh in their options. As responsible citizens, will they continue to support an unprincipled government? Or are they willing to extend support to Annamalai, who vouches for his party candidates? So many doubts may arise on that front in the minds of people. Is Annamalai as dependable as his name? Will his party deliver on the promises? Will he hold them accountable? As an upcoming novice and untried politician, will he succeed in steering the party in the right direction? I have a straightforward answer; give him and his party a chance; the choice is in your hands. Allow him to prove you right.
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