Is Udhayanidhi Stalin Politically Immature?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- EPS labels Udhayanidhi as politically immature.
- Criticism of Udhayanidhi's handling of his Deputy Chief Minister role.
- Historical context of political tensions in Tamil Nadu.
- Importance of political accountability highlighted.
- Public response to EPS's statements indicates strong support.
Erode East, Oct 10 (NationPress) AIADMK General Secretary and Leader of the Opposition, Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS), on Friday dismissed Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin’s remarks as the words of “a political newcomer who lacks both historical insight and accountability.”
Speaking at a large public gathering in Erode East during his state-wide tour, “Makkalai Kaappom, Thamizhagathai Meetpom,” EPS stated: “Who is Udhayanidhi? He is the grandson of Karunanidhi and son of Stalin. What has he contributed to the DMK besides his lineage? He speaks without grasping the essence of politics or civic life.”
In response to Udhayanidhi’s claims that “Edappadi Palaniswami is a puppet of the BJP” and that “the AIADMK office has moved to Amit Shah’s residence,” EPS retorted fiercely.
“Udhayanidhi, if you are blind to the facts, I will gift you a new pair of glasses. The AIADMK office is located in Royapettah—come and witness it! You and your father attempted to sabotage that office, getting it vandalized and sealed with help from certain factions. However, we broke those seals,” he said, eliciting enthusiastic applause.
EPS also reminded the audience that it was the late Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa who once protected the DMK headquarters, Anna Arivalayam, from being overtaken during a period of turmoil between M. Karunanidhi and Vaiko.
“Do not forget that. Unlike your party, we are not vindictive,” he asserted.
Addressing the recent Karur stampede incident, EPS accused Udhayanidhi of failing his responsibilities as Deputy Chief Minister.
“When 41 precious lives were lost, he made a superficial visit and left. Instead of ensuring ongoing relief and rehabilitation, he returned to his vacation. If he genuinely cared for the people, he would have remained in Karur,” EPS said.
He concluded that Udhayanidhi lacks the moral authority or political maturity to critique the AIADMK.
“If you wish to debate, discuss our performance while in office. Highlight our flaws if you can, and I will respond. Yet all you do is repeat, like a broken record, that ‘EPS is the BJP’s puppet.’ Either you fail to think before you speak, or you simply lack political insight. If you did, you wouldn’t articulate your thoughts this way,” he remarked.