Erode, April 2 (NationPress) On Thursday, the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, M.K. Stalin, announced that the Congress party is set to unveil its candidate list later today. This announcement came as he energetically campaigned in Erode for the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance in the lead-up to the Assembly elections on April 23.

During a public rally, CM Stalin called upon voters to support alliance candidates, including the Congress representative in Erode East, whose candidacy is anticipated to be confirmed by senior Congress figure Rahul Gandhi.

He emphasized the necessity of a united Opposition to protect the interests of Tamil Nadu.

It is noteworthy that the Congress party is contesting 28 seats within the Secular Progressive Alliance led by DMK for the total of 234 Assembly seats.

While campaigning in various constituencies throughout the district, CM Stalin sought votes for DMK candidates such as S. Muthusamy (Erode West), Thoppu Venkatachalam (Perundurai), Chandrasekar (Bhavani), Sivalingam (Anthiyur), and Nallasivam (Gobi), as well as alliance partners including candidates from Congress, MDMK, and CPI.

Recalling the legacy of social justice, CM Stalin noted that Erode has historically been a hub of progressive politics, associated with influential leaders like C.N. Annadurai and M. Karunanidhi.

He framed the upcoming election as a pivotal choice between inclusive governance and divisive politics.

Highlighting his government's accomplishments, CM Stalin stated that the Dravidian Model has successfully promoted development across various sectors and regions. He pointed out significant initiatives in Erode, such as the completion of the long-delayed Athikadavu-Avinashi project, the establishment of a turmeric research center, and the distribution of land titles to residents who contributed land for infrastructure.

In a strong rebuttal to the Opposition, CM Stalin criticized AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami and the BJP for their inability to address vital issues.

He asserted that the NDA has undermined Tamil Nadu through detrimental policies, including NEET, delays in GST compensation, and a lack of educational funds.

Additionally, he expressed concerns regarding women's safety, referencing prior incidents and maintaining that his government has enacted stricter laws to ensure harsher penalties for crimes against women.

In a direct appeal to voters, CM Stalin urged them to back alliance candidates across constituencies, expressing confidence that the DMK-led coalition would achieve a decisive victory in the elections.

aal/rad