With campaigning for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections ending on Tuesday, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin issued a final appeal urging voters to support the DMK-led alliance to safeguard the state’s rights, culture, and development. Polling is scheduled for April 23 across 234 constituencies, with 4,023 candidates in the fray, setting up a four-cornered contest involving the DMK, AIADMK, Naam Tamilar Katchi, and other parties. The Election Commission has enforced a ban on opinion polls during the silence period, while political activity has remained intense despite the scorching summer heat, with rallies, roadshows, and door-to-door campaigns continuing until the last moment.
Stalin, who spearheaded the DMK’s campaign through an extensive statewide tour, released a video message on social media platform X highlighting his government’s achievements and warning against forces he claimed aim to derail Tamil Nadu’s progress. Striking an emotional note, he described his bond with the people as rooted in responsibility, and responded to criticism by admitting no government is flawless but insisting Tamil Nadu fares better than many other states. He dismissed allegations that the DMK is anti-Hindu, accusing the BJP of spreading false narratives, and emphasized that his party has consistently supported minority communities. He pointed to temple properties worth over ₹7,000 crore being retrieved and thousands of temples renovated under his regime, while stressing that the “Dravidian model” has delivered welfare and growth. Stalin also said that when critics call him “more dangerous than his father,” he sees it as proof that he is a threat to those who wish to betray Tamil Nadu or obstruct its development. Calling the election crucial, he urged voters to back the DMK alliance to secure the state’s rights, culture, and growth trajectory over the next five years.