Chennai, Apr 4:
A sharp political confrontation has erupted in Tamil Nadu after Edappadi K. Palaniswami accused Chief Minister M. K. Stalin of treating his father, former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, “like a prisoner” during his final days.
The allegation, made during an election campaign speech, has triggered a strong and emotional rebuttal from Stalin, further escalating tensions ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.
Addressing a public rally, EPS cited internal party remarks to claim that Karunanidhi was allegedly isolated in his last years. He used the charge to question Stalin’s leadership, stating that if such treatment could be meted out within the family, it raised concerns about governance.
The remark is part of a broader offensive by the AIADMK leadership as it intensifies its campaign against the ruling government.
Responding sharply, Stalin rejected the accusation and defended his father’s legacy, asserting emotional and political pride. In a strong statement, he declared that Karunanidhi was a “lion” and described himself as his son, dismissing EPS’s claims as baseless and politically motivated.