Chennai, Jan 6 (NationPress) Edappadi K. Palaniswami, the general secretary of AIADMK and former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, urged the citizens of the state to bring an end to what he termed the “family-oriented and dynastic rule” of the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) during the upcoming 2026 Assembly elections.

In his statement, Palaniswami highlighted the increasing uncertainty within the DMK-led coalition, especially regarding the future involvement of the Indian National Congress. He remarked, “There is no clarity on whether the Congress will stay in the alliance or withdraw before the elections.”

Palaniswami emphasized that the forthcoming elections should represent a significant shift in Tamil Nadu's political landscape. “The citizens must put an end to the dynastic politics and family governance that has characterized the DMK administration,” he declared, asserting that governance should focus on development and public welfare instead of political lineage.

Criticizing the performance of the DMK government, the AIADMK leader claimed that development has been neglected throughout the majority of the current government's term. “With elections nearing and facing potential defeat, the government has suddenly begun to announce new initiatives,” he stated.

He specifically referenced Salem district, alleging that no significant development projects have been initiated since the DMK took office. He mentioned the 100-lake rejuvenation project, which was started during the AIADMK era to benefit four Assembly constituencies in Salem but has since stagnated.

Expressing concerns about governance and public administration, he noted that protests by sanitation workers, teachers, farmers, and government employees are widespread across Tamil Nadu, indicating profound dissatisfaction among various societal groups.

On the topic of law and order, Palaniswami claimed that citizens, especially women and children, are increasingly living in fear. Referring to a recent incident involving an attack on a migrant worker on a train, he criticized the government’s management of internal security, pointing out that Tamil Nadu still lacks a permanent Director General of Police.

Moreover, he alleged that the DMK government hesitates to appoint officers from the Centre’s approved panel, fearing independent action.

Regarding leadership within the ruling party, Palaniswami condemned the marginalization of senior leader Duraimurugan while promoting Udhayanidhi Stalin to the position of Deputy Chief Minister, viewing it as a clear indication of dynastic politics.