The All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) has declared a major statewide protest against the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government in Tamil Nadu, scheduled for February 13. AIADMK’s general secretary and leader of the opposition, Edappadi K. Palaniswami, announced that party leaders, including key office-bearers, MLAs and MPs, will take part in demonstrations across the state. The protests will be held in front of all Panchayat Union office buildings beginning at 10 a.m. on that day. Palaniswami said the action is aimed at opposing what the party describes as the “DMK government’s attempts to disrupt the 125-day employment scheme and various people’s welfare measures.” He called on party functionaries and local leaders to mobilise supporters to ensure a strong turnout. This protest comes amid escalating political tensions in Tamil Nadu as the state gears up for the Assembly elections later this year. @@@