Tiruvannamalai (Tamil Nadu), March 31 (NationPress) In a vigorous campaign against the opposition as the April 23 Assembly elections approach, Tamil Nadu's Deputy Chief Minister, Udhayanidhi Stalin, on Tuesday criticized AIADMK chief Edappadi K. Palaniswami for trying to connect the state with the BJP. He called on voters to firmly reject such political maneuvers at the polls.

Speaking at an election rally in Tiruvannamalai, Udhayanidhi Stalin emphasized that the forthcoming elections will shape whether Tamil Nadu continues on its progressive development trajectory or succumbs to what he termed as external political influence.

He underscored the necessity for the citizens of Tamil Nadu to protect their political autonomy.

With sharpened rhetoric, the DMK youth wing leader framed the election as a pivotal clash between Chief Minister M. K. Stalin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alleging that the AIADMK is facilitating the BJP's intrusion into the state's governance.

He further asserted that Palaniswami’s political strategy jeopardizes Tamil Nadu’s rights and urged voters to support the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA) to uphold the state’s autonomy.

"The choice is unmistakable for the voters — one side offers a government dedicated to welfare and inclusive growth, while the other represents an attempt to subject Tamil Nadu to external political control. This election is about defending our rights and identity," stated Udhayanidhi Stalin.

In a heartfelt message, he asked voters to back the DMK alliance, claiming that a robust mandate would guarantee the continuation of the party's governance model. He noted his plea not just as the son of the Chief Minister but also as the grandson of the late DMK leader M. Karunanidhi.

Highlighting the government's key accomplishments, he cited initiatives like free bus travel for women and monthly financial aid programs, which he claimed have greatly enhanced the socio-economic conditions for women throughout the state. He also mentioned the recently launched Rs 8,000 'Illatharasi' coupon scheme for homemakers, framing it as part of the DMK’s larger commitment to empowering women.

Drawing comparisons to previous governments, he attributed landmark initiatives like the distribution of gas stoves and free television sets to Karunanidhi’s welfare policies, which improved both convenience and awareness among women.

As campaigning accelerates, the rally showcased the DMK’s strategy of merging welfare-focused messaging with pointed political critiques against its opponents, setting the stage for a fiercely contested election in the coming weeks.