Minister Arun Raj on Tuesday called on political rivals to contest elections “honestly” and not attempt what he described as shortcut methods to win.
Speaking to reporters in Dharapuram, he criticised EPS, alleging that “real AIADMK cadre” would not accept him and that his actions had pushed many long-time party workers to look for an alternative. Arun Raj claimed such workers had joined the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), which he described as pursuing “clean politics.”
He also asserted that his side had won without distributing money for votes and said they were delivering honest administration. Arun Raj credited TVK leader Vijay with taking steps to end a “culture of corruption,” and urged opponents not to underestimate the public.
Warning that repeated attempts to win through shortcuts would lead to repeated defeats, he pointed to practices such as alleged false propaganda and obstructing MLAs. He said critics should instead highlight any shortcomings in his administration.
Arun Raj further questioned the manner of victory in the Edappadi constituency and argued that genuine AIADMK workers in the MGR and Jayalalithaa tradition wanted “true governance” under TVK’s leadership. He expressed confidence that his party would register a big win in the election.
