Daijiworld Media Network - Chennai
Chennai, Apr 18: At an election rally near Sholinghur in Ranipet district, senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi delivered a strong critique of the AIADMK-led NDA alliance, accusing the BJP of exerting indirect control over Tamil Nadu’s political landscape.
Speaking to party workers and supporters, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha alleged that the AIADMK had surrendered its autonomy and was now operating under the influence of the BJP. He argued that the national party was using the regional outfit as a conduit to expand its footprint in the state.
Gandhi underscored the Congress party’s stance on regional self-governance, asserting that Tamil Nadu’s leadership should remain firmly in the hands of its own people. He stressed that decisions affecting the state should not be dictated remotely from New Delhi.
Highlighting the Congress-DMK alliance, Gandhi described it as a partnership built on mutual respect rather than coercion. He contrasted this with what he claimed to be the BJP’s approach, accusing it of using pressure tactics, including central agencies, against political opponents while allegedly intimidating AIADMK leaders.
Turning his attention to ideological forces, Gandhi dismissed the prospects of the BJP and the RSS gaining lasting political ground in Tamil Nadu, expressing confidence that such efforts would not succeed.
He also referenced a recent parliamentary development concerning the Women’s Reservation Bill, which was tied to delimitation based on the 2011 Census. Gandhi characterized the bill’s defeat as a significant moment, claiming it prevented a reduction in the political representation of southern states.
The proposed amendment reportedly fell short of the required two-thirds majority in the Lok Sabha, securing 298 votes in favor and 230 against. The result marked a rare legislative setback for the central government, as Opposition parties came together to block the measure.
Gandhi’s remarks come as election campaigning in Tamil Nadu intensifies, with political alliances sharpening their rhetoric in the lead-up to the Assembly polls.