“We are driven by a desire to deliver the best to the people”
Q. How is this assembly election different from earlier ones for the DMK? A. Tamil Nadu was a flourishing state, and over the past 10 years, the AIADMK has singlehandedly brought down its progress. Paazhaipona pathu varudangal (10 years gone to waste) is how I would describe the AIADMK’s rule. It has completely surrendered the rights of the state to the Centre and is acting at the behest of the BJP-led central government, which is completely detrimental to the interests of the people of Tamil Nadu. The state government is controlled 50 per cent by the AIADMK and 50 per cent by the BJP—that is what makes this assembly election different for us. People across the state are looking to the DMK to save Tamil Nadu and bring back its glory.
Q. What are the new elements in your campaign and how is the strategy different this time?
A. In the past five years, my partymen and I have continuously been among the people, have constantly interacted with them to understand their concerns, their dreams and aspirations and have been with them through their difficult times. People have trusted us and constantly reached out to us, even while we are in the opposition. That is the real victory.
The biggest compliment we have received is from the chief minister himself, who repeats every issue we raise and copies every promise we make. Despite being an opposition party, we are receiving petitions from the people, and we have provided an assurance that they will be addressed within the first 100 days of the DMK coming to power. The hundreds of thousands of petitions we have received shows the trust that people have in us and their eagerness to see us win.
Q. What promises are you making to voters to sway them in favour of the DMK?
A. My first and foremost promise to the people is to do whatever it takes to preserve the rights of the people of Tamil Nadu, unlike the current AIADMK
government which has sold out the state’s interests to the Centre. My second promise is to hear people out—I am there and will be there for my people, whether during the pandemic or otherwise. My third promise is to ensure that no one is left behind when it comes to support from the government. Beyond this, our manifesto committee has met with individuals, organisations and experts, and is working on developing a manifesto that reflects the people’s wants and needs.
Q. Why has the DMK hired a political strategist for this election? How is it contributing to the growth and support for the party?
A. We are driven by a desire to bring the best talent and expertise on-board to amplify the party’s vision, help us reach more people effectively and deliver the best to the people of Tamil Nadu. This applies to everything we do and will also apply when we form the government with the blessings of the people. In any case, this is not unique—we are not the first party to do so, nor will we be the last. In the past, people used to design their own houses. Nowadays, architects are hired. However, the vision and resources belong to the owners of the house.
Q. The AIADMK has raised the development-versus-dynasty rhetoric, too. Will your son Udhayanidhi contest this election? What will his role be hereafter?
A. At present, he is the party’s youth wing secretary. Like other DMK leaders, he has to work hard and prove himself on the ground. His journey going forward will be decided by his performance and what the people think of him. In any case, it is for the party executive council to take a call.