Sat Nov 08 17:07:55 UTC 2025: Summary:

Former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) criticized the DMK government at a public rally in Salem on Saturday. He accused the DMK of announcing populist schemes like free laptops and monthly assistance to women out of fear of losing the 2026 Assembly election. EPS also alleged widespread corruption within the DMK regime, citing issues such as misappropriation of funds in liquor sales, corruption in municipal recruitment, and a failure to control rising prices. He further claimed the DMK was manipulating voter lists to secure local body election wins and criticized their handling of law and order, citing a rise in crimes against women and children. He also questioned the DMK’s claimed investment figures and job creation record.

News Article:

AIADMK Leader Accuses DMK of Corruption, Election Fearmongering

Salem, India – November 8, 2025 – Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS), former Chief Minister and General Secretary of the AIADMK, launched a scathing attack on the ruling DMK party on Saturday, accusing them of rampant corruption and implementing populist schemes out of fear of defeat in the upcoming 2026 Assembly elections.

Speaking at a public rally in Omalur, Salem, celebrating the AIADMK’s 54th anniversary, EPS alleged that Chief Minister M.K. Stalin was primarily focused on his family and criticized the appointment of Udhayanidhi Stalin as Deputy Chief Minister.

“The DMK government is announcing free laptops and ₹1,000 monthly assistance for 30 lakh more women because they are afraid of losing the next election,” EPS declared.

He further accused the DMK of widespread corruption, citing alleged misappropriation of ₹24,000 crore in liquor sales through illegal surcharges, and ₹880-crore corruption in Municipal Administration recruitment. He also criticized the DMK for failing to control the rising prices of essential commodities and for only filling a small fraction of promised government vacancies.

EPS also raised concerns about law and order, claiming a rise in crimes against women and children, fueled by drug availability. He pointed to a recent gang rape case in Coimbatore as an example. He also took aim at the current “in-charge” Director General of Police, saying the state should have a regularly appointed DGP.

The AIADMK leader also challenged the DMK’s claims of attracting significant investment, alleging discrepancies between figures released by the central government and the Chief Minister’s statements.

EPS warned AIADMK supporters to be vigilant, claiming the DMK was attempting to manipulate voter lists to maintain their grip on local body elections. “Do not believe the rumors spread by some media. AIADMK will form an excellent alliance,” he added.

The DMK has yet to respond to these allegations. The 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly election is shaping up to be a fiercely contested battle, with both parties vying for control of the state.

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