2026 assembly elections – The Commune https://thecommunemag.com Mainstreaming Alternate Wed, 10 Sep 2025 05:42:35 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 https://thecommunemag.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/cropped-TC_SF-1-32x32.jpg 2026 assembly elections – The Commune https://thecommunemag.com 32 32 Part-Time Politician Vijay Becomes Weekend Politician, To Start Meeting People Only On Saturdays https://thecommunemag.com/part-time-politician-vijay-becomes-weekend-politician-to-start-meeting-people-only-on-saturdays/ Wed, 10 Sep 2025 05:42:35 +0000 https://thecommunemag.com/?p=127788 Following the conclusion of his second state-level conference, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief and part-time politican Vijay has announced his first state-wide political tour, set to begin on 13 September 2025, in the central Tamil Nadu districts of Trichy, Perambalur, and Ariyalur. However, what has drawn widespread attention and ridicule is the nature of his […]

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Following the conclusion of his second state-level conference, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief and part-time politican Vijay has announced his first state-wide political tour, set to begin on 13 September 2025, in the central Tamil Nadu districts of Trichy, Perambalur, and Ariyalur. However, what has drawn widespread attention and ridicule is the nature of his schedule. Vijay’s tour is limited strictly to Saturdays, a decision that has sparked significant criticism across media and political circles.

Many question how such large districts could be meaningfully covered in a single day, and the consensus is growing that Vijay appears to be engaging in politics only as a weekend hobby. This has led to the label of “weekend politician” being attached to him, suggesting a lack of seriousness and full-time commitment to public life.

TVK’s general secretary, N. Anand, has formally written to the Director-General of Police, requesting security for the tour, which is expected to conclude on 20 December. The announcement comes just a week after TVK’s second major state conference in Madurai on 21 August, which attracted a sizable crowd.

At the event, Vijay sought to position TVK as a credible alternative to the ruling DMK. However, the conference itself, which ran from 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., raised eyebrows for its brevity. Vijay’s own speech lasted a mere 35 minutes and notably avoided addressing pressing state issues such as law and order, governance failures, or current political developments.

The tour itinerary, once made public, quickly went viral on social media not for its ambition, but for its glaring limitations. Vijay plans to visit different regions exclusively on Saturdays, often targeting multiple districts on the same day. These visits are expected to involve brief public interactions, some reportedly lasting only 15 minutes and scheduled after sunset. This minimalist approach has been widely mocked online, with critics describing it as an insultingly shallow effort from someone who aspires to lead the state. Many have gone so far as to liken his weekly public appearances to religious darshans, accusing Vijay of assuming a god-like stature where the mere act of showing up is seen as doing the people a favor.

The tour itinerary, now viral online, outlines visits to several districts exclusively on Saturdays:

  • Sep 13: Trichy, Perambalur, Ariyalur
  • Sep 20: Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, Mayiladuthurai
  • Sep 27: Tiruvallur, North Chennai
  • Oct 4–5: Coimbatore, Nilgiris, Tiruppur, Erode
  • Oct 11: Kanniyakumari, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi
  • Oct 18: Kancheepuram, Vellore, Ranipet
  • Oct 25: South Chennai, Chengalpattu
  • Nov 1: Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, Tirupattur
  • Nov 8: Tiruvannamalai, Kallakurichi, Villupuram
  • Nov 15: Tenkasi, Virudhunagar
  • Nov 22: Cuddalore
  • Nov 29: Sivaganga, Ramanathapuram
  • Dec 6: Thanjavur, Pudukottai
  • Dec 13: Salem, Namakkal, Karur
  • Dec 20: Likely to conclude in Dindigul, Theni, Madurai

Political commentators have drawn sharp contrasts between Vijay’s campaign strategy and the rigorous, hands-on styles of veteran politicians. Former Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami, for instance, managed to campaign across 74 constituencies in just 30 days, despite being in his seventies. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also frequently cited, having spoken at over 226 public rallies in a single election cycle, along with more than 100 padayatras. Historical leaders like NTR, MGR, Annadurai, and Kamarajar are remembered for their relentless dedication to grassroots campaigning and their deep connections with the people. By comparison, Vijay’s efforts are seen as superficial and celebrity-driven, lacking the authenticity and hard work expected from someone entering public service.

The underlying criticism is not merely about the number of meetings or their duration but about what this approach reveals about Vijay’s mindset. Critics argue that he is trying to translate his film stardom into political capital without undergoing the rigors of political life. They claim he is relying on visibility and fan loyalty rather than addressing real issues, building trust, or presenting policies. His refusal to campaign on Sundays or engage for more than a few minutes a week is viewed as a sign of elitism, arrogance, and complete disconnect from democratic values. Some even suggest that this signals a belief that the Tamil electorate is naive enough to vote simply because of his celebrity presence an attitude considered both disrespectful and dangerously out of touch.

Adding to these concerns is the lack of substance in his public speeches. Observers point out that Vijay has so far failed to address any local or regional issues in his appearances. Unlike seasoned politicians who immerse themselves in the unique challenges of each constituency, he appears to be on a promotional tour, reminiscent of his movie marketing campaigns. This has led to the accusation that he is treating politics as an extension of his film career rather than a platform for public service. His schedule, spanning four months but featuring only 14 public meetings and no concrete engagement with the grassroots, reinforces the view that he is ill-prepared for the responsibilities of political leadership.

The comparison with historical political figures further underscores the point. Leaders like Annadurai and Kamarajar built their reputations through sheer hard work, traversing towns and villages, organizing public meetings, and speaking directly to people’s concerns. Even film-based leaders like MGR and NTR transitioned into politics only after committing themselves fully to campaigning, often attending multiple events a day and engaging extensively with the public. Vijay’s limited and passive approach, by contrast, seems to lack any of the urgency or vision associated with such predecessors.

In conclusion, critics argue that Vijay is not a genuine political leader, but a celebrity attempting to mimic political involvement without understanding its responsibilities. His brief weekly appearances, minimalist tour schedule, and failure to address real issues suggest a disinterest in governance and public engagement. For many, Vijay’s political entry appears more like a vanity project than a serious movement, and his reliance on stardom rather than substance is viewed as both disrespectful to the people and harmful to democratic values. As one observer aptly put it, Vijay is not leading a political revolution he is simply stepping onto another stage, expecting applause.

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]]> Congress Aims To Contest 125 Seats In Upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly Polls, Says AICC-In-Charge Girish Chodankar https://thecommunemag.com/congress-aims-to-contest-125-seats-in-upcoming-tamil-nadu-assembly-polls-says-aicc-in-charge-girish-chodankar/ Mon, 08 Sep 2025 10:07:23 +0000 https://thecommunemag.com/?p=127572 Speaking at a Congress conference in Tirunelveli, Girish Chodankar All India Congress Committee (AICC) in-charge for Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Congress Committees announced that the Indian National Congress is firmly committed to contesting 125 seats in the forthcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. During his address, Chodankar emphasized that the event was not just a state-level […]

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Speaking at a Congress conference in Tirunelveli, Girish Chodankar All India Congress Committee (AICC) in-charge for Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Congress Committees announced that the Indian National Congress is firmly committed to contesting 125 seats in the forthcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.

During his address, Chodankar emphasized that the event was not just a state-level gathering but a significant message to the nation, showcasing the party’s grassroots strength in Tamil Nadu. He highlighted that the Congress has successfully established 22,000 village-level committees across the state.

“In a conversation with Rahul Gandhi, I told him that he could meet over two lakh dedicated members from these committees anytime he visits Tamil Nadu,” Chodankar said. He also added that both Rahul Gandhi and party president Mallikarjun Kharge have expressed their intent to visit the state and personally interact with these village committees.

“We are preparing with a focus on 117 constituencies, but our clear goal is to contest 125 seats in the assembly elections,” he said, urging party workers to begin organizing and identifying seats accordingly.

He further alleged that over the past decade, there have been consistent irregularities involving electronic voting machines during elections, claiming that Rahul Gandhi had exposed what he referred to as “vote theft.”

These remarks underscored the Congress party’s electoral ambitions and its ongoing efforts to strengthen its presence in Tamil Nadu ahead of the next assembly polls.

(With inputs from Dinamalar)

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]]> TTV Dhinakaran Pulls Out Of NDA, Keeps 2026 Alliance Options Open https://thecommunemag.com/ttv-dhinakaran-pulls-out-of-nda-keeps-2026-alliance-options-open/ Thu, 04 Sep 2025 03:53:51 +0000 https://thecommunemag.com/?p=127159 Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK) General Secretary TTV Dhinakaran on Wednesday declared that his party is no longer part of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Tamil Nadu, marking a major shift ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections. Once a steadfast ally of the BJP, Dhinakaran said his party would decide on new alliances […]

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Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK) General Secretary TTV Dhinakaran on Wednesday declared that his party is no longer part of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Tamil Nadu, marking a major shift ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.

Once a steadfast ally of the BJP, Dhinakaran said his party would decide on new alliances only in December, after wide consultations with functionaries and cadres. Speaking to reporters in Tenkasi, he noted that his earlier support for the BJP during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections was “unconditional and in the national interest”, as he and his party believed Narendra Modi’s third term as Prime Minister would benefit the country.

However, he drew a sharp distinction between national and state elections. “The 2026 Assembly elections are different from the Lok Sabha polls. We will announce our alliance decision only in December, taking into account the sentiments of our cadres and office-bearers,” he said.

The AMMK chief also dismissed the idea that Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s efforts to bring the AIADMK factions together had succeeded. “The attempt to unify AIADMK has failed,” he said, while leaving the door open to possible collaborations with other parties, including Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).

Meanwhile, former Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam (OPS) has also distanced himself from the BJP alliance. Recently, he convened a meeting with supporters in Alwarpet, Chennai, where three key resolutions were adopted, including a formal withdrawal from the NDA.

Panruti Ramachandran, who was present, announced that OPS would undertake a state-wide tour, emphasising that his group was not currently aligned with any party. OPS has also called for unity within the AIADMK, urging all factions to stand together to revive the party’s lost influence.

With the Assembly polls expected in April or May 2026, Tamil Nadu’s political landscape is fast shifting. The ruling DMK-led alliance, the AIADMK, and the BJP-led bloc remain key players, while Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) and TVK have confirmed they will contest independently.

Against this backdrop, Dhinakaran’s move to exit the NDA and keep alliance options open adds to the fluidity of the state’s political scene.

-IANS

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]]> Tamil Nadu 2026 Assembly Elections: Chanakyaa Report Reveals Star Candidates Of DMK, AIADMK, BJP Who’ll Win Or Lose https://thecommunemag.com/tamil-nadu-2026-assembly-elections-dmk-aiadmk-bjp-whos-poised-to-win/ Tue, 02 Sep 2025 11:16:00 +0000 https://thecommunemag.com/?p=127002 As Tamil Nadu prepares for the crucial 2026 Assembly elections, political commentator Rangaraj Pandey provides an in-depth evaluation of the star candidates likely to shape the electoral outcomes. Drawing on historical voting margins, constituency profiles, and grassroots intel, Pandey’s analysis, offers a nuanced forecast of victories, challenges, and strategic shifts across major political camps in […]

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As Tamil Nadu prepares for the crucial 2026 Assembly elections, political commentator Rangaraj Pandey provides an in-depth evaluation of the star candidates likely to shape the electoral outcomes. Drawing on historical voting margins, constituency profiles, and grassroots intel, Pandey’s analysis, offers a nuanced forecast of victories, challenges, and strategic shifts across major political camps in the state.

“Chanakyaa Analysis,” which blends historical voting data, ground-level intelligence (“cephalological input”), and constituency-specific factors, provides one of the most detailed early previews of the electoral battleground, covering over 80 high-profile candidates.

Key Star Candidates and Constituency-wise Forecasts 

Let’s first look at the DMK.

The DMK Juggernaut: Certain Victories for the First Family and Staunch Allies

The analysis presents a formidable picture for the DMK-led alliance. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin is predicted to easily retain his Kolathur stronghold, a seat he won by over 70,000 votes in 2021. His son and Deputy CM, Udhayanidhi Stalin, is also forecasted to win again from Chepauk-Thiruvallikeni.

The DMK’s core leadership appears unshakable. Heavyweights like E.V. Velu (Tiruvannamalai, won by ~94,000 votes), K.N. Nehru (Tiruchirappalli West, ~85,000 votes), and I. Periyasamy (Athoor) are seen as certain winners, their massive victory margins and local influence creating “fortresses” deemed impregnable to opposition challenges.

Other key DMK ministers expected to cruise to victory include Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi, Geetha Jeevan (Thoothukudi), and Ma Subramanian (Saidapet).

S.M. Nassar (Avadi): With a formidable lead of over 55,000 votes, the senior minister is forecasted to clinch a hat-trick, irrespective of minor shifts in ministerial status or party dynamics.

Dharanidharan Anbarasan (Alandur): He holds a commanding lead of over 40,000 votes and is poised for another successful re-election campaign.

Senthil Balaji (Karur): Winning by roughly 12,400 votes, this influential DMK leader remains a central political figure destined for re-election.

K.N. Nehru (Tiruchi West): With an 85,000 vote margin in a strong party bastion, Nehru’s victory is almost guaranteed.

Anitha Radhakrishnan (Tiruchendur): Despite past challenges, Anitha has rebuilt significant presence with a 25,000-vote margin. Forecasts suggest sustained electoral success.

Ponmudi (Thirukovilur): Although previously a strong ministerial figure, uncertainty clouds his 2026 prospects due to strained party relations, predicting a tough battle.

Raghupati (Thirumayam): With a slim winning margin under 1,500 votes, his reelection chances are bleak given changing political tides.

Velmurugan (Panruti): Likely to lose in 2026, reflecting shifting local allegiances.

M.C. Sampath (Cuddalore): A narrow defeat by 5,000 votes in prior elections places him as a contender for a strong comeback in 2026.

AIADMK’s Mixed Fortunes: EPS Holds Fort, Others Face Uncertainty

For the principal opposition AIADMK, the forecast is a tale of two realities. Leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) is predicted to hold his home turf of Edappadi, though Pandey notes a potential challenge if the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) fields a strong candidate.

Edappadi K. Palaniswami (Edappadi): The former Chief Minister won with an approximate 9,300 vote margin in a constituency with a sizable Vanniyar community. While facing challenges including the possible consolidation of opposition factions, he is still tipped to prevail.

However, the analysis highlights internal strife and slim past margins as major hurdles for other AIADMK stalwarts:

Sellur Raju (Madurai West): Despite winning by over 9,000 votes, he may face intense challenges, possibly leading to reduced margins.

KP Munusamy (Veppanahalli) – Won by 3,054 votes) is tipped to lose.

Ponmudi (Thirukoyilur) – Despite a large past win, faces doubt due to legal troubles.

O. Panneerselvam (OPS) (Bodi Nayakkanur): The former CM, remains a “million-dollar question.” His political future is clouded by uncertainty over which party or alliance he will contest from, if at all. In the previous election, he won by approximately 11,000 votes; expected to maintain electoral strength though candidacy remains to be confirmed.

SP Velumani (Thondamuthur) and Kadambur Raju (Kovilpatti) are among the few AIADMK leaders predicted to secure comfortable wins.

Jayakumar (Royapuram): After a sizeable defeat by over 27,000 votes, he may seek alternate constituencies with better prospects.

Kadambur Raju (Kovilpatti): Holds a comfortable margin of 12,400 votes and is projected to win again, though political alignments may cause shifts.

Vijayabhaskar (Viralimalai): Nearly 24,000 vote lead signals a safe seat for him.

K.A. Sengottayan (Gobichettypalayam): A durable political figure with multiple victories, maintaining a strong voter base.

BJP’s Uphill Battle: Annamalai’s Constituency a Key Question

The analysis underscores the significant challenges facing the BJP in making inroads into the state assembly. While the party is expected to improve its vote share, winning seats remains a tough ask.

The fate of K. Annamalai is a central focus. Pandey notes that Annamalai put up a spirited fight in Aravakurichi in 2021, losing by a narrow margin. However, the analysis strongly suggests he will change his constituency for 2026. His victory, the prediction states, is entirely dependent on which seat he chooses to contest, making it impossible to call at this stage.

Other BJP leaders like Nainar Nagenthiran (Tirunelveli) and MR Gandhi (Nagercoil) are forecast to have a “high chance” or a “safe” win, banking on strong local presence and the potential consolidation of the NDA alliance votes. Conversely, Union Minister L. Murugan is predicted to lose if he contests from Tiruporur again and is advised to seek a different constituency.

Individual Leaders of Interest

Some of the other leaders who are also in the fray include:

Seeman (NTK): Predicted to face defeat if he contests again from Tiruvottiyur. The analysis suggests he will likely change his constituency.

TTV Dhinakaran (AMMK): His prospects are put “on hold,” pending a decision on whether his party will join the NDA alliance or contest alone.

Vijay (TVK): The analysis confirms the actor-politician will contest but labels his chosen constituency a “million-dollar question.” Madurai and the Kongu belt are speculated as potential arenas, with his victory chances entirely dependent on the seat selection.

Congress: The party’s fortunes seem tied to its alliance with the DMK. While a leader like Selvaperunthagai (Sriperumbudur) is predicted to win, Hasan Maulana (Velachery) is forecast to lose.

Manoj Pandian: Navigating intra-party alliances and minority votes, Pandian’s fate depends on broader coalition formations.

V.A. Shanmugam: An influential educationist, he is expected to leverage his local support into electoral success.

Sarathkumar and Radhika: Star power combined with political groundwork makes them prominent candidates, likely to influence multiple constituencies.

Methodology and Caveats

Pandey repeatedly emphasizes that his predictions are not based on fresh polls but are a “rough calculation” derived from past data (2021 results), local caste equations, the strength of party machinery, and the analyst’s own ground-level assessment.

He issues a crucial caveat: these predictions are highly susceptible to change based on:

  • Alliance Arithmetic: Final seat-sharing agreements between the AIADMK-BJP and within the DMK-led front could drastically alter calculations.
  • Candidate Changes: A leader switching constituencies or parties, or being replaced by a family member, can upend any prediction.
  • Rebellion: Internal party rebellions are flagged as a constant threat to sitting MLAs, even those with strongholds.
The Bottom Line

Rangaraj Pandey’s Chanakyaa Analysis sketches a political landscape where the DMK enters the 2026 election as the clear frontrunner, with its core vote base and leadership seemingly secure. The opposition’s best hopes lie in capitalizing on anti-incumbency at the local level, leveraging a strong NDA alliance, and forcing close contests in constituencies where the DMK’s victory margin was thin. However, as of now, the analyst’s crystal ball shows a distinct shade of DMK red across most of Tamil Nadu’s electoral map.

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]]> Suriya To Become Udhaya Suriya? DMK Reportedly Planning To Field Its Stooge In Kongu Region For 2026 https://thecommunemag.com/suriya-to-become-udhaya-suriya-dmk-plans-to-field-its-stooge-in-kongu-region-for-2026/ Thu, 14 Aug 2025 13:28:14 +0000 https://thecommunemag.com/?p=125065 The recent wave of admiration showered by the Dravidian ecosystem on actor Suriya and his Agaram Foundation, with Sun TV giving it prime coverage and notable Periyarist and anti-Hindu leaning figures like Kamal Haasan participating in the event, had many observers suspecting something strategic was underway. Now, the political intent behind the move appears to […]

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The recent wave of admiration showered by the Dravidian ecosystem on actor Suriya and his Agaram Foundation, with Sun TV giving it prime coverage and notable Periyarist and anti-Hindu leaning figures like Kamal Haasan participating in the event, had many observers suspecting something strategic was underway. Now, the political intent behind the move appears to be gradually unfolding.

According to emerging reports, the DMK is considering fielding actor Suriya in the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, potentially from a constituency in Coimbatore, with the goal of weakening the AIADMK-BJP alliance in the Kongu belt a region traditionally challenging for the DMK, and also to counter part-time politician Vijay’s TVK.

Historically, the DMK has formed the government six times: in 1967, 1971, 1989, 1996, 2006, and most recently in 2021. However, except for the 1967–71 period, the party has never secured back-to-back victories in state elections. Opposition parties frequently use this as a point of criticism, framing the DMK as incapable of sustaining long-term electoral momentum.

To counter this narrative and aim for a second consecutive term, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin is reportedly going all-in for 2026. Though the AIADMK is currently fragmented and lacks a cohesive alliance, the BJP tie-up and rising popularity of actor turned politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), especially in western districts, pose a genuine threat. Some surveys even suggest TVK could garner over 10% of the vote share.

In light of this, DMK is targeting a sweeping majority possibly over 200 seats. However, the northern and western regions remain a political hurdle. With PMK’s internal rifts offering a potential opening in the north, DMK is also focused on shoring up support in the Kongu zone, where the party has historically struggled.

Previously, the party inducted Divya Sathyaraj, daughter of actor Sathyaraj to appeal to voters in the Kongu region. Now, attention has turned to actor Suriya, whose family including Sivakumar, Jyothika, and Karthi has a strong public image and wide reach, particularly in the region.

Sources suggest that if Suriya declines to contest, the DMK may consider fielding another member of the Sivakumar family. This should explain the recent Agaram Foundation PR event and also Suriya’s special show in Zee Tamizh where beneficiaries gave emotional testimonies.

Adding to the calculation is the Gounder community background of Sivakumar, which is a dominant caste in the Kongu region. The DMK reportedly believes this caste factor, combined with celebrity appeal, could help counter both the AIADMK-BJP alliance and the rising influence of Vijay’s TVK in districts like Coimbatore, Erode, Tiruppur, Salem, Namakkal, Karur, and Nilgiris.

All signs point to the DMK preparing a major electoral move, and actor Suriya or someone from his family might just be the next political trump card.

(With inputs from Dinamalar)

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]]> AIADMK’s EPS Begins Southern Leg Of Campaign, Reaffirms NDA Ties https://thecommunemag.com/aiadmks-eps-begins-southern-leg-of-campaign-reaffirms-nda-ties/ Tue, 29 Jul 2025 09:03:38 +0000 https://thecommunemag.com/?p=122621 AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami on 29 July 2025 launched the next leg of his statewide campaign, “Let’s Save the People, Let’s Rescue Tamil Nadu”, with a visit to Sivaganga district. Arriving at Tiruchi airport from Chennai, Palaniswami told reporters that the ‘Ezhuchi Perani’ campaign has so far covered 49 Assembly constituencies and was […]

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AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami on 29 July 2025 launched the next leg of his statewide campaign, “Let’s Save the People, Let’s Rescue Tamil Nadu”, with a visit to Sivaganga district. Arriving at Tiruchi airport from Chennai, Palaniswami told reporters that the ‘Ezhuchi Perani’ campaign has so far covered 49 Assembly constituencies and was receiving enthusiastic support from the public.

“Today, I am beginning my campaign in Sivaganga. From here, I will continue to cover constituencies in Ramanathapuram, Thoothukudi, Tenkasi, and Virudhunagar districts. The people have been giving us a tremendous welcome everywhere,” he said.

Addressing the recent controversy over a Tamil Nadu government circular directing agricultural cooperative banks to check farmers’ CIBIL scores before approving loans, Palaniswami criticised the move, saying it would have badly impacted the farming community. “I submitted a petition to Prime Minister Narendra Modi explaining how this would hurt farmers. The state government has now withdrawn the circular and restored the old procedure. We will continue to raise our voice for the people, whether we are in power or not,” he said.

When asked about the possibility of expelled AIADMK leader V.K. Sasikala joining any alliance involving the party, Palaniswami responded, “It is not for me to speculate. Other parties’ alliance decisions are for their leaders to announce.” Commenting on the potential formation of a third front involving the Congress and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, he said, “There are still eight months left for the elections. Anything can happen. Each party will take its call on alliances based on its political strategy.”

On former Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam’s criticism of the Centre for not allocating education funds to Tamil Nadu, Palaniswami said the issue of education being under the Concurrent List dates back to the Emergency era. He said, “Education was moved to the Concurrent List in 1976. The DMK, despite being part of several central governments, never took any steps to restore it to the State List. They must take responsibility.”

Speaking on the NDA alliance, Palaniswami reiterated AIADMK’s current position. “We are part of the NDA, and several parties are aligned with the BJP. There is still time before the elections. Once the schedule is announced, we will declare our alliance partners.”

-IANS

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]]> Coalition Is About Cooperation: AIADMK Needs BJP’s Help In Southern Districts And Vice Versa https://thecommunemag.com/coalition-is-about-cooperation-eps-will-bite-the-dust-in-south-without-bjps-help/ Wed, 23 Jul 2025 05:21:15 +0000 https://thecommunemag.com/?p=121912 AIADMK General Secretary and Leader of the Opposition Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) recently stirred debate with a remark during his speech, “Mr. Stalin, we are not fools. AIADMK will win with a majority and form the government independently. We will decide if we want an alliance or not.“ Though EPS later clarified that the alliance is […]

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AIADMK General Secretary and Leader of the Opposition Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) recently stirred debate with a remark during his speech, “Mr. Stalin, we are not fools. AIADMK will win with a majority and form the government independently. We will decide if we want an alliance or not.“ Though EPS later clarified that the alliance is intact 100% and will continue to be so, the comment has nonetheless created ripples potentially weakening the broader objective of unseating the DMK in the 2026 Assembly elections.

Edappadi K. Palaniswami of the AIADMK appears to be overlooking some crucial political realities of the recent past. Under his leadership, the party no longer has the influential figures who once played a key role in unifying the AIADMK cadres at the ground level during the 2021 elections. Leaders like O. Panneerselvam, T.T.V. Dhinakaran, and V.K. Sasikala, who, under Jayalalithaa’s guidance, helped maintain the party’s stronghold in the southern regions of Tamil Nadu.

The results of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections made it clear that the BJP has made significant strides in the southern belt, in many cases surpassing the AIADMK and relegating it to third place. In this context, for Palaniswami to assume that the large crowds attending his rallies are a reflection of his personal popularity or the continued appeal of MGR and Jayalalithaa’s legacy is a misreading of the ground reality. Mistaking this enthusiasm as a signal of guaranteed support could be a strategic misstep, especially when the party’s vote base is clearly shifting.

A Fragmented Past And The Missing Pillars

Since the 2021 Assembly elections, AIADMK has not been the unified force it once was under J. Jayalalithaa. Key leaders like O. Panneerselvam, T.T.V. Dhinakaran, and V.K. Sasikala once instrumental in holding the southern vote base together are now either sidelined or in opposition to the EPS-led faction. The absence of these Thevar community heavyweights has severely weakened AIADMK’s hold in the south.

In the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, the consequences of this fragmentation became evident. The BJP, allied with OPS and Dhinakaran, made significant inroads in southern districts, often pushing the AIADMK to a distant third position in constituencies such as Tirunelveli, Theni, Kanyakumari, and Madurai.

EPS’s interpretation of the large public turnout at his rallies as a direct endorsement of his leadership or the AIADMK’s legacy (through MGR and Jayalalithaa) is misleading. The political landscape has changed, and crowd size does not necessarily reflect electoral strength especially when party structure, leadership appeal, and social coalition have become fractured.

AIADMK’s Shrinking Footprint Down South 

The erosion of support in the south is not accidental it’s structural. The AIADMK, under EPS, is increasingly perceived as a Gounder-dominated party, alienating the Thevar community that once formed the party’s southern backbone. EPS’s refusal to reconcile with leaders like OPS and Dhinakaran despite internal calls from veterans such as K.A. Sengottaiyan, Natham Viswanathan, SP Velumani, and C.V. Shanmugam has only deepened the divide.

On 7 July 2024, six senior leaders reportedly met with EPS in Salem, urging him to reunify the party and reconcile with estranged factions. However, EPS firmly rejected any merger or reconciliation, choosing instead to chart a solo course. This decision, critics argue, risks ceding further ground to rivals in southern Tamil Nadu. This naturally positions the AIADMK to rely on an alliance with the BJP whose influence in the south is steadily growing along with the supportive alliance of O. Panneerselvam and T.T.V. Dhinakaran, to regain its footing and remain competitive in the southern regions of Tamil Nadu.

BJP’s Strategic Rise In The South

The 2024 general elections proved to be a wake-up call for the AIADMK. While the DMK-led alliance swept all 39 Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, it was the BJP not the AIADMK that emerged as the runner-up in several southern constituencies. The saffron party’s ability to consolidate anti-DMK votes thanks to its alliance with OPS, Dhinakaran’s AMMK, and the PMK allowed it to outperform the AIADMK in at least a dozen southern and central constituencies.

The BJP secured 11.24% of the vote share on its own, and the NDA collectively pulled in 18.27%, pushing the AIADMK to third and even fourth position in districts where it once dominated. The AIADMK’s overall vote share dropped from 30.56% in 2019 to 20.46% in 2024, and it lost deposits in seven key constituencies, including South Chennai, Kanyakumari, Puducherry, and Thoothukudi.

This vote drift has made one fact abundantly clear, in the south, the BJP is fast becoming the primary opposition force, while the AIADMK continues to bleed support.

Anti-Incumbency Against DMK: A Wasted Opportunity?

Public dissatisfaction with the ruling DMK government has been steadily growing. The anti-incumbency mood presents a ripe opportunity for the opposition but only if it unites. If the anti-DMK vote continues to splinter among AIADMK, BJP, NTK, and emerging players like Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), the ruling party could retain power despite the public mood.

EPS’s comments that seemed to downplay or distance the BJP his party’s strongest ally in the south risk diluting the alliance’s collective impact. Many within the AIADMK see the alliance with the BJP as critical, not just tactically but strategically, to prevent vote division and challenge the DMK’s dominance.

Even prominent AIADMK figures like former Chennai Mayor Saidai Duraisamy have called for a return to MGR-style politics forming pragmatic alliances to defeat a common political opponent. Given the current scenario, that common enemy is clearly the DMK.

The Path Ahead

EPS finds himself at a critical juncture. His refusal to engage with former allies and his ambiguous remarks about AIADMK’s need for an alliance could jeopardize the party’s chances in 2026. While projecting strength and independence may resonate with party loyalists, the numbers show that without a broader alliance especially with the BJP and southern powerbrokers like OPS and Dhinakaran AIADMK’s chances of regaining power are slim.

The question isn’t whether AIADMK wants the BJP. The question is: can it afford not to?

In southern Tamil Nadu, the reality is stark the AIADMK needs the BJP and its allies far more than the BJP needs them. If EPS fails to recognize this and continues to alienate potential partners, the party risks further decline, ceding its traditional strongholds to both the BJP and the DMK.

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The post Coalition Is About Cooperation: AIADMK Needs BJP’s Help In Southern Districts And Vice Versa appeared first on The Commune.

]]> EPS Says AIADMK-BJP Alliance Will Continue Intact 100%, Extends Invite To All “Like-Minded” Parties For A United Anti-DMK Front https://thecommunemag.com/eps-says-aiadmk-bjp-alliance-will-continue-intact-100-extends-invite-to-all-like-minded-parties-for-a-united-anti-dmk-front/ Tue, 22 Jul 2025 12:07:04 +0000 https://thecommunemag.com/?p=121897 Amid the propaganda peddled by the DMK and its allies about friction within the AIADMK-BJP alliance, AIADMK General Secretary and Opposition Leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) firmly dismissed the claims, asserting that the alliance remains unbroken and intact. In an exclusive interview with The Hindu on 21 July 2025, during his “Makkalai Kappom, Thamizhagathai Meetpom” […]

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Amid the propaganda peddled by the DMK and its allies about friction within the AIADMK-BJP alliance, AIADMK General Secretary and Opposition Leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) firmly dismissed the claims, asserting that the alliance remains unbroken and intact. In an exclusive interview with The Hindu on 21 July 2025, during his “Makkalai Kappom, Thamizhagathai Meetpom” campaign in Tiruvarur, EPS reiterated the AIADMK’s determination to secure an outright majority in the upcoming 2026 Assembly elections, reflecting the people’s desire for stable governance.

On the Statewide Tour’s Reception

EPS described the public response to his roadshow, which began on July 7 in Mettupalayam, as highly enthusiastic. Massive crowds at every stop, he said, reflect the growing discontent with the current DMK government.

On the Dravidian Model and Chief Minister Stalin

He criticized Chief Minister M.K. Stalin as a “media-centric” leader who, despite presenting a polished image, has failed to deliver meaningful development or welfare to the people. According to EPS, his remarks merely echo the public’s disappointment.

On Smaller Parties Demanding More Seats

EPS said that it is not unusual for regional allies to negotiate based on their political standing, but in the case of the DMK, its declining popularity is prompting allies to demand a greater share. This situation could pressure the ruling party into conceding more seats.

On Possible Cracks in the DMK Alliance

While stopping short of predicting a breakup, EPS noted that internal differences among DMK’s allies are becoming more visible. He cited recent statements by Congress and CPI(M) leaders criticizing the DMK’s unfulfilled promises and power-sharing hesitations as signs of growing discord.

On the AIADMK-BJP Alliance and Power-Sharing Rumors

Clarifying a comment made during his Thiruthuraipoondi roadshow, EPS denied suggesting any reluctance to share power with the BJP. He accused the DMK and its allies of spreading false narratives to undermine the alliance. He emphasized that there is no internal contradiction and reaffirmed that the AIADMK-BJP alliance is strong and will remain united.

On Forming the Next Government

EPS insisted that Tamil Nadu voters have historically favored majority governments and will again seek a single-party rule in 2026. He expressed full confidence that the AIADMK would return to power independently and fulfill the people’s aspirations.

On Possible Alliances with TVK or NTK

While confirming that there had been no discussions with actor Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), EPS welcomed all like-minded parties including TVK and Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) to join the fight against the DMK. He emphasized the importance of a broad coalition to remove an “anti-people” government.

On BJP-AIADMK Grassroots Synergy

EPS dismissed narratives suggesting that the AIADMK has lost ground in southern and delta regions. He said there is strong support across the state and pointed to enthusiastic participation from BJP workers in his campaign as proof of grassroots unity. He listed AIADMK’s past contributions, such as declaring the delta an agricultural protected zone, ensuring Cauvery water availability, and providing disaster relief, to show the party’s commitment to farmers and rural communities.

On the PMK Leadership Conflict

EPS refrained from commenting deeply on the internal conflict between S. Ramadoss and Anbumani Ramadoss over leadership in PMK, expressing hope for an amicable resolution.

On Law and Order, Corruption, and ED Investigations

He accused the DMK of being the root cause of corruption in the state and claimed the law enforcement system is compromised under its rule. EPS said that crimes involving DMK members are often shielded and that women and children no longer feel safe. He also criticized the DMK’s failure to abolish NEET and blamed them for the tragic suicides of 25 medical aspirants.

On Women’s Welfare and Government Schemes

Responding to claims that DMK has won over women voters through welfare schemes like the Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thogai, EPS countered by highlighting that the DMK scrapped earlier AIADMK-led initiatives like Thalikku Thangam and marriage assistance. He predicted that women voters would hold the DMK accountable.

On AIADMK’s Future

EPS said his vision for the party is to see it return to power and continue serving the people. He described himself as a grassroots leader who works closely with the cadre and claimed that unity and strength at the party’s core would drive their victory in 2026.

On PM Modi’s Upcoming Visit

EPS said details about a possible meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his upcoming visit to Ariyalur would be announced soon.

(With inputs from The Hindu)

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]]> “She Punctured The DMK In TN Assembly”, Edappadi Palaniswami Praises Vanathi Srinivasan & BJP, Slams DMK In Coimbatore Rally https://thecommunemag.com/she-punctured-the-dmk-in-tn-assembly-edappadi-palaniswami-praises-vanathi-srinivasan-bjp-slams-dmk-in-coimbatore-rally/ Wed, 09 Jul 2025 10:27:08 +0000 https://thecommunemag.com/?p=120568 On 8 July 2025, during the second day of his campaign tour in Coimbatore, Leader of the Opposition and AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) praised BJP South Coimbatore MLA Vanathi Srinivasan, asserting that the DMK government is incapable of answering her questions in the Tamil Nadu Assembly. Sharing the stage with EPS as […]

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On 8 July 2025, during the second day of his campaign tour in Coimbatore, Leader of the Opposition and AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) praised BJP South Coimbatore MLA Vanathi Srinivasan, asserting that the DMK government is incapable of answering her questions in the Tamil Nadu Assembly.

Sharing the stage with EPS as an NDA ally, Vanathi Srinivasan welcomed him warmly, calling him “the future Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.” She criticized the DMK regime as anti-people and anti-national, highlighting the hardships faced by Coimbatore’s industrialists. “When we question the use of central funds, they claim not to have received enough. The political climate in Tamil Nadu is turbulent, like a cyclone,” she remarked.

EPS, addressing a large public gathering in Puliyakulam, called Coimbatore a bastion of the AIADMK and claimed that BJP and AIADMK cadres are committed to serving the nation. He accused the DMK of failing to bring significant development projects to Coimbatore and criticized the slow progress of the Avinashi Bridge.

Edappadi K. Palaniswami said, “Here, the respected brother S.P. Velumani mentioned that this district will prove an AIADMK fort. He also stated that various schemes were implemented during the AIADMK rule. Similarly, the respected National President of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s Women’s Wing spoke briefly here. I saw her in the assembly where she punctured the DMK. The DMK had no ability to answer the questions she asked in the assembly, they couldn’t respond. That’s how Sister Vanathi Srinivasan worked tirelessly for the people of this region.Whether it’s those belonging to the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam or those belonging to the Bharatiya Janata Party, they are people who dedicate themselves to the nation and work hard. They are not selfish like the DMK. We will choose and implement schemes that bring benefit to the people. The DMK is not like that. If they bring a scheme, they will only bring it after calculating what profit their own family will gain.”

He also raised concerns about worsening law and order, drug abuse, and the safety of women in the state. “Even after 50 months in power, the DMK government has failed to reduce Tamil Nadu’s mounting debt. Every newborn in the state inherits a share of this debt,” EPS said. He pointed out that over 4.6 lakh government job vacancies remain unfilled, and several government colleges still await the appointment of principals.

EPS further alleged that DMK ministers secure positions by paying monthly bribes, and accused the ruling party of trying to win elections using “looted money.” Referring to the DMK’s cash transfer scheme for women, he claimed the government expanded the scheme only due to electoral pressure from the AIADMK.

He also took aim at DMK Minister Senthil Balaji, saying he should repent before seeking public acceptance. EPS warned that those involved in the TASMAC scam would soon face jail time and labeled the DMK as the only political movement in India “founded on corruption.”

He concluded by claiming that streetlights are turned off during AIADMK rallies to obstruct their campaigns but even that won’t stop victory. “We will prove in 2026 that our alliance is a winning alliance. We will rise to save Tamil Nadu. Every alliance party must work to win under their own symbol,” he said.

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The post “She Punctured The DMK In TN Assembly”, Edappadi Palaniswami Praises Vanathi Srinivasan & BJP, Slams DMK In Coimbatore Rally appeared first on The Commune.

]]> EPS Calls DMK’s Senthil Balaji As ‘Ten Rupees Balaji’ Referring To TASMAC Scam https://thecommunemag.com/eps-calls-dmks-senthil-balaji-as-ten-rupees-balaji-referring-to-tasmac-scam/ Tue, 08 Jul 2025 06:21:38 +0000 https://thecommunemag.com/?p=120324 AIADMK General Secretary and Leader of the Opposition, Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS), kicked off his statewide campaign on 7 July 2025, ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. Marking the beginning of his tour in Coimbatore, EPS was joined by BJP leaders atop a campaign vehicle signaling a renewed alliance between the AIADMK and […]

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AIADMK General Secretary and Leader of the Opposition, Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS), kicked off his statewide campaign on 7 July 2025, ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. Marking the beginning of his tour in Coimbatore, EPS was joined by BJP leaders atop a campaign vehicle signaling a renewed alliance between the AIADMK and the BJP.

In his opening address, EPS launched a sharp critique of the ruling DMK, particularly targeting the party’s decision to appoint former minister Senthil Balaji, who had stepped down following pressure from the Supreme Court. Alluding to Balaji’s legal troubles and potential imprisonment, EPS used the issue to accuse the DMK of shielding tainted leaders.

He also took aim at the DMK’s long-standing tradition of dynastic politics. EPS questioned whether only those born into political families had the right to lead, contrasting that notion with his own rise from humble beginnings.

Speaking at the rally in Coimbatore, EPS said, “They’ve appointed a DMK official here. Who is it? Who is it? Balaji… What name have they given him? ‘Ten Rupee Balaji.’ What name? ‘Ten Rupee Balaji.’ He’s been appointed as the official here today. This appointed election in-charge is someone who committed corruption and went to jail for it. Just think about it, the Supreme Court questioned DMK Minister Senthil Balaji whether he should go to jail or continue as a minister. He tried to appeal multiple times, but the Supreme Court did not relent, and he finally resigned from his ministerial post. Such a person, who committed corruption, has been made your district in-charge. Just think, the AIADMK party is the party that serves the people of this country. In 5 years of DMK rule, bribery and corruption have run rampant. Bribery is present in every department. No work is done without a bribe. ‘Commission, collection, corruption’ is number one under DMK rule. Do you want such a corrupt government again? Do you want a corrupt government? Therefore, the 2026 Assembly election must be an election to remove the corrupt DMK government. Today, many years have passed since monarchy was abolished in India. The DMK family, as previously Stalin said, DMK means the Karunanidhi family, is yearning for monarchy to return to Tamil Nadu. The 2026 Assembly election must be an election to put an end to dynastic rule and family rule.”

Taking a swipe at the DMK’s legacy of dynastic politics, EPS questioned whether only members of one family were entitled to become Chief Minister. Gesturing toward the crowd, he asked, “Can’t someone from the grassroots rise to this position?” He then contrasted his own journey, saying he had once stood among the common people and had worked his way up to where he is today.

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