Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin has asserted that the DMK will remain unshaken by the opposition’s strategies, dismissing claims of potential rifts within the ruling party. Speaking at various government programs and party events in Thanjavur on Thursday, Udhayanidhi emphasized that the aspirations of the faction-ridden AIADMK and the untrustworthy BJP for a split in the DMK will not come to fruition.“The long wait of the opposition to see cracks in our party will be in vain,” Udhayanidhi declared. “The people of Tamil Nadu have consistently supported the DMK, and our alliance partners continue to stand by us.” He pointed out that the strength and unity of the party have been reaffirmed time and again by the unwavering support from the public and allies alike.
Addressing a gathering at a wedding function in Boothalur, Udhayanidhi expressed his deep connection to Thanjavur, noting the district’s significance in his political journey. “Thanjavur is close to my heart as it was the first district where calls for my elevation were made,” he said. Udhayanidhi also highlighted the legacy of former Chief Minister M Karunanidhi, who contested and won from Thanjavur. “There is no place that he hasn’t visited during his extensive political career,” Udhayanidhi added, drawing a parallel to Chief Minister MK Stalin, who proudly refers to himself as a man of the Delta region. “I am part of this legacy and feel proud to be a Delta man,” he said.
Citing Niti Aayog data, the Deputy Chief Minister lauded the Tamil Nadu government for being the best among all Indian states. “This is a testament to the success of the Dravidian model of governance, which has become an example for other states to follow,” he said.
Highlighting the importance of women’s development as a priority under the Dravidian model, Udhayanidhi mentioned that the Chief Minister is deeply committed to promoting women’s welfare. “The government has launched several pro-women initiatives, such as the Magalir Urimai Thogai, Puthumai Penn scheme, free bus facilities, and many other developmental programs,” he stated. “Currently, 1.16 crore women receive Rs 1,000 monthly under these schemes.”
Udhayanidhi also criticized the opposition’s attempts to undermine the DMK’s accomplishments. “Their efforts to derail our progress will not succeed. The people of Tamil Nadu will respond to them appropriately, so we won’t waste our energy on baseless criticisms,” he said.
In a rallying call to party members, Udhayanidhi emphasized that it is the duty of every DMK cadre to secure a win of over 200 seats in the upcoming 2026 Assembly elections. “This is the Chief Minister’s wish, and we must work tirelessly to make it a reality. I am confident that the Dravidian model government will be re-elected for a second consecutive term, with MK Stalin as Chief Minister for the second time and the DMK entering its seventh term in power,” he concluded.