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NEW DELHI: Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS), General Secretary of the AIADMK and Leader of the Opposition, launched a sharp attack on the ruling DMK during his campaign outreach in Saidapet. He alleged that the government led by Chief Minister M. K. Stalin has pushed Tamil Nadu into a cycle marked by rising prices, deteriorating law and order, and administrative inefficiency.

Palaniswami alleged that the DMK’s “Vidiyal” governance had failed to bring relief to the public, claiming that essential commodities such as rice, edible oil, and pulses had become increasingly unaffordable.

“Prices have nearly doubled, and both the poor and the middle class are finding it difficult to make ends meet. Is this the change that was promised?” he asked.

He further accused the government of burdening households through increased electricity tariffs and property taxes, while failing to fulfil key election promises such as loan waivers and relief on fuel prices.
Raising concerns over public safety, EPS claimed that law and order had deteriorated significantly under the current regime, alleging that criminals had become more emboldened due to weak enforcement.

“When those in power associate with criminals instead of taking action against them, what message does that send?” he said, adding that under an AIADMK government, “lawbreakers will once again fear the law.”

He also flagged a growing drug problem in the state, linking it to an increase in violent crime, and assured strict action if his party returns to power.

On civic infrastructure, Palaniswami criticised the DMK government’s handling of urban development in Chennai. He noted that the previous AIADMK administration had completed over 1,240 km of stormwater drains with international funding support, but alleged that the current government had failed to effectively tackle flooding and waterlogging.

“Despite the strong foundation laid earlier, several key projects have stalled due to administrative inefficiency,” he said.
During the event, EPS urged voters to back AIADMK alliance candidate Senthamizhan, who is contesting on the “cooker” symbol. He described him as a dependable and grounded leader who understands local concerns.

Positioning the election as a choice between two governance models, Palaniswami called on voters to reject what he termed “family rule and political entitlement” and instead support accountable leadership.

“This election is about safeguarding Tamil Nadu and reclaiming its future. Saidapet must take the lead in bringing this change,” he said. He concluded his speech with the campaign slogan: “Makkalai Kaappom, Thamizhagathai Meetpom” (Let us protect the people, let us reclaim Tamil Nadu).