In a recent address at a wedding ceremony in Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu, Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin commented on the current political climate, focusing on the DMK coalition and the state’s opposition. He responded to concerns about possible rifts within the ruling alliance and made several noteworthy statements.
Udhayanidhi began by emphasizing the importance of cultural values, noting that the self-respect marriages organized by the DMK were a symbol of Tamil pride. He recalled that it was former Chief Minister Annadurai who enacted the law for self-respect marriages in 1967. This legal provision, which does not involve traditional rituals or mantras, has become a hallmark of Tamil culture, he stated. He also mentioned that the state’s scheme to provide a monthly allowance of ₹1 crore and 16 lakh to women under the “Kalaignar Women’s Welfare Scheme” was being followed by several other states.
The Deputy Chief Minister then addressed the Tamil Nadu opposition, specifically the AIADMK. He criticized AIADMK leader Palanisami for his alleged frustrations, pointing out that the opposition party continues to criticize Chief Minister Karunanidhi’s name being used for various schemes. Udhayanidhi suggested that this was a way for EPS to create division within the ruling alliance, hoping for a fracture in the coalition.
Further, Udhayanidhi responded to comments made by Dindigul Srinivasan, a former AIADMK leader who recently joined the alliance. Srinivasan had allegedly claimed that during coalition meetings, some members were demanding ₹200 crore and 20 seats, which he considered indicative of a “business-minded” alliance. In contrast, Udhayanidhi stressed that the DMK’s alliance was built on policies and ideologies, making it a “policy-driven” coalition.
Looking ahead to the 2026 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections, Udhayanidhi reaffirmed the importance of the upcoming polls, stating that the DMK’s focus was on contesting 200 seats and securing a victory for the party.
His speech underlined the DMK’s commitment to its core values and policies while pointing out the contrasting approach of the opposition parties. The Deputy Chief Minister also addressed ongoing concerns about internal unity, firmly stating that the ruling coalition was focused on governance and the development of the state, especially for women and marginalized communities.