Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at an NDA alliance public meeting in Madurai, took aim at the DMK–Congress combine and the INDIA bloc, using a mix of national-level political attacks and references to local issues to sharpen his campaign pitch.
In his address, Modi alleged that the DMK government was mired in corruption and read out a list of claimed irregularities, including figures linked to transfers, job-related fraud, contract awards, sand smuggling and alleged TASMAC-related scams. He argued that such allegations undermined the ruling party’s moral right to continue in power.
Modi also responded indirectly to remarks from within the DMK that suggested there was no fear of him or his father, saying that in a democracy no one needs to fear anyone and that criticism only reflects recognition of his work. He further alleged that, unlike normal competition to perform better in government, the DMK had competition over who could be more corrupt.
Turning to local concerns, Modi referred to Madurai civic issues, including the reported property tax irregularities case in the Madurai Corporation that led to the DMK mayor losing the post, and raised complaints about cleanliness and road conditions. He also mentioned that agreements with the European Union were aimed at improving employment opportunities for youth.
The Prime Minister criticised the Congress and the DMK for their 2004–2014 tenure, alleging they neglected infrastructure such as the ageing Pamban bridge and slowed progress. He also praised AIADMK leaders M.G. Ramachandran and J. Jayalalithaa, and recalled several leaders from southern districts, including Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar, Veerapandiya Kattabomman, Azhagu Muthukon, the Maruthu brothers and Immanuel Sekaran.
