DMK president M.K. Stalin campaigned in Madurantakam on Saturday in support of the party’s candidate Parandhaman, launching a sharp attack on the Chief Minister and the ruling side over the by-election.
Stalin said the bypoll was not a routine election and claimed it was an avoidable contest “imposed” on voters. He alleged that the election was triggered by an MLA resigning soon after winning, and described the circumstances as an instance of “horse-trading” aimed at propping up a government without a majority.
Referring to the Chief Minister’s remarks on the resignation, Stalin argued that the MLA quit to avoid the anti-defection law and later sought votes under a different symbol. He also criticised comments attributed to the ruling side and said voters should respond firmly to what he called insulting statements about the electorate.
Stalin further accused the government of worsening law and order, rising sexual crimes and drug culture, and said price rise was hurting households. He mocked the Chief Minister’s frequent visits and public appearances in Madurantakam, claiming the intensity of campaigning reflected “fear of defeat” in the by-election.
