Will DMK's Pledge Drive on Anna's Birth Anniversary Unite Tamil Nadu?
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Synopsis
On the birth anniversary of C.N. Annadurai, DMK rallies support for a five-point pledge aimed at preserving Tamil Nadu's rights and identity. The campaign, involving extensive outreach, seeks to unite the party's members against perceived injustices. Will this initiative strengthen DMK's resolve and mobilize the people of Tamil Nadu?
Key Takeaways
- The DMK is organizing a statewide pledge drive on September 15.
- Nearly 68,000 polling booths will participate in the campaign.
- The initiative aims to assert Tamil Nadu's rights and identity.
- Five key points will be included in the pledge.
- Public meetings will follow the pledge administration in district units.
Chennai, Sep 13 (IANS) The DMK has urged its cadres and supporters to participate in a five-point pledge campaign throughout Tamil Nadu on September 15, commemorating the birth anniversary of the party's founder, C.N. Annadurai. The initiative emphasizes a commitment to "not allow Tamil Nadu to bow its head in shame".
This pledge drive will take place at nearly 68,000 polling booths and is part of the party's 'Oraniyil Tamil Nadu' membership initiative, which has reportedly registered 2.7 crore members. Over seven lakh workers are set to reach out to one crore families.
Chief Minister and party president M.K. Stalin shared the pledge via social media, calling on members to unite against perceived threats to Tamil Nadu's rights and identity.
The pledge outlines commitments including: "I will protest against the unjust delimitation that threatens to reduce Tamil Nadu's number of MPs. I will resist the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) that undermines voters' rights. I will oppose NEET and other regulations that hinder our youth, advocating for our students' educational funding. I will stand firm against any marginalization of Tamil language, culture, and pride. I will demand sufficient resources for the welfare of the working class, including farmers, fishermen, weavers, and women." Each vow concludes with: "I will not let Tamil Nadu bow its head in shame."
DMK organization secretary R.S. Bharathi announced that the pledge will also be administered at the party's Mupperum Vizha in Karur on September 17, followed by public meetings in all district units on September 20 and 21.
In response to criticisms from AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami regarding the membership drive, DMK leaders suggested that such remarks reflect an inability to engage effectively, pointing out that the AIADMK has already compromised with the BJP and is, in their view, attempting to mortgage Tamil Nadu's interests to a national party.
On the matter of the SIR, DMK leaders affirmed their intent to challenge it through legal channels and remain vigilant against violations.
Palaniswami also criticized a recent meeting between AIADMK MLA K.A. Sengottaiyan and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, questioning the transparency of such political interactions.
Point of View
The DMK's initiative appears as a strategic move to galvanize support and assert regional pride. In a polarized political landscape, their focus on local identity and rights resonates with many in Tamil Nadu. However, the challenge remains in converting this pledge into tangible action that impacts the lives of the constituents effectively.
NationPress
13/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the DMK's pledge drive?
The pledge drive commemorates the birth anniversary of C.N. Annadurai and seeks to rally support for Tamil Nadu's rights and identity.
How many polling booths will participate in the pledge?
The pledge campaign will be organized at approximately 68,000 polling booths across Tamil Nadu.
What are the key points of the pledge?
The pledge involves protesting against unjust delimitation, opposing NEET, advocating for educational funding, and demanding rights for the Tamil language and working class.
When will the pledge be administered?
The pledge will be administered on September 15, with additional activities planned for September 17 and September 20-21.
How has the AIADMK responded to this initiative?
AIADMK leaders have criticized the DMK's membership drive, suggesting it reflects their own political shortcomings.
