Ahead of the Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026, CM M. K. Stalin has launched a series of sharp attacks against AIADMK chief Edappadi K. Palaniswami, focusing on his alleged proximity to the Bharatiya Janata Party, his recent visit to New Delhi, and his public remarks on political opponents. Stalin directly questioned the consistency of Palaniswami’s political stance and accused him of changing positions for political survival.
Stalin alleged that Palaniswami’s Delhi visit reflects a dependency on the BJP leadership and indicated that it was driven by electoral considerations rather than public interest. Referring to this, he said, “To protect his position as AIADMK General Secretary, he is carrying a kavadi to Delhi.” He further linked the AIADMK’s current political moves to its relationship with the BJP, suggesting that the party’s actions are influenced by national-level alignments.
Addressing remarks made by Palaniswami about former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, Stalin contrasted it with the DMK’s approach after the death of former Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa. He said, “After Jayalalithaa’s demise, we maintained political civility by not criticizing her. Can Palaniswami be expected to follow such political decency?”
Stalin also accused Palaniswami of raising issues and making statements out of fear of electoral defeat. Referring to criticism from the AIADMK leader, he said that such remarks indicate anxiety about the election outcome rather than substantive political arguments. Stalin remarked, “He is speaking like this out of fear of defeat.”
Further attacking the opposition’s stance on public issues, Stalin questioned whether the AIADMK would take a strong stand against potential price hikes. He stated, “After the elections, they will increase the prices of petrol, diesel, and gas. Do they have the courage to raise their voice against it for the people of Tamil Nadu?”
These remarks come as political exchanges between the DMK and AIADMK intensify in the run-up to the 2026 elections.
