Will stand for minorities: EPS

AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami asserted that projecting a Prime Ministerial candidate is unnecessary for seeking votes in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls scheduled for April-May. Palaniswami highlighted examples from the past, citing instances where prominent leaders like Naveen Patnaik of Odisha, Jagan Mohan Reddy, and the Left front in Kerala did not present a PM face during elections. Addressing the ‘Vellattum Mathasarbinmai’ (Let secularism win) rally of SDPI, Palaniswami stressed the primary focus should be on doing good, serving the people, and safeguarding their interests. He pledged that in Parliament, the AIADMK would vocalize its support to protect the interests of minorities. Palaniswami reiterated that the AIADMK has no plans to align with the BJP for the 2026 Assembly polls, maintaining a clear stance on its political alliances. As the political landscape evolves in the lead-up to the Lok Sabha polls, Palaniswami’s remarks underline a commitment to governance and service rather than a reliance on projecting a Prime Ministerial face for electoral gains. The AIADMK’s emphasis on protecting minority interests signals a strategic approach to appeal to a diverse voter base.