New Delhi: Chief Minister Stalin Addressing an election rally in Paramakudi on Sunday and intensifying his campaign promises ahead of the polls, he accused the BJP-led alliance government of using proposed reservation for women as an excuse to try to reduce political representation in Tamil Nadu.Stalin claimed that the Center had “betrayed” the southern states and said it was seeking to punish regions like Tamil Nadu that had successfully implemented population control measures and contributed significantly to the country’s growth. He claimed that democratic forces across the country would oppose the move.“Does AIADMK Chairman Palaniswami have the courage to oppose and question this injustice?” Stalin said, pointing the finger at the opposition and questioning its stand on the issue.The chief minister also outlined a slew of welfare measures and promised to increase the number of buses under the free travel scheme for women if the DMK returns to power in what he called a “Dravidian model 2.0” government.Highlighting the impact of existing schemes, Stalin said that under the free bus travel initiative, women traveled more than Rs 935 crore in 1,800 days. He described the DMK’s manifesto as an “election superstar” and reiterated his promise of providing Rs 8,000 coupons on the purchase of home appliances.On the welfare of fishermen, he said seaweed cultivation would be encouraged, adding that the Union government would be urged to take back Kachatiu, without naming Sri Lanka directly.Earlier in the day, Stalin took a morning walk in Palamakudi to interact with residents and seek their support as campaigning gathers pace in the state.
