Is the DMK-Congress Alliance Facing a Crisis? BJP Calls Rs 5,000 Scheme an ‘Election Gimmick’
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Chennai, Feb 16 (NationPress) A.N.S. Prasad, the spokesperson for Tamil Nadu's BJP, has launched a fierce critique against the ruling DMK and its ally, the Congress party, asserting that their coalition is under significant internal pressure as the 2026 Assembly elections draw near.
In a pointed statement, Prasad noted that disputes regarding both seat allocation and power distribution have revealed deepening fractures within the DMK-Congress alliance.
He mentioned the Congress leadership's reported demand for 40 Assembly seats and a greater role in governance, claiming that Chief Minister M.K. Stalin is feeling the heat from Congress's top brass, led by Rahul Gandhi.
Recent public statements from Congress figures like Manickam Tagore and Praveen Chakravarty highlight the party’s unwavering stance on these demands. Prasad argued that the DMK initially dismissed these comments as outliers but now seems forced to address them, showcasing what he termed “weakness within the alliance.”
Additionally, he criticized the state government's announcement of a one-time Rs 5,000 assistance for women beneficiaries via the Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thogai scheme, labeling it an “election gimmick” designed to sway voters ahead of the elections.
In contrast, the DMK maintains that the scheme underscores its long-standing commitment to women's welfare and social justice.
Highlighting the potential of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Tamil Nadu, Prasad asserted that the coalition, which includes the AIADMK, BJP, PMK, and other regional parties, is gaining momentum throughout the state.
He referenced Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent gathering in Chengalpattu-Madurantakam, where Modi advocated for a “double-engine government” to ensure cohesive development between the Centre and the state.
Furthermore, Prasad accused the DMK of attempting to distract public attention by branding the AIADMK as “subservient to Delhi,” while significant governance issues, such as escalating debt and unfulfilled promises, remain unresolved.
With under a year remaining until the Assembly elections, political analysts anticipate more intense exchanges between the competing alliances as negotiations and campaign strategies ramp up across Tamil Nadu.