'DMK doesn't shout, makes noise or disrupt public life': Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin takes swipe at Vijay’s debut tour

NEW DELHI: Tamil Nadu chief minister and DMK president MK Stalin on Saturday said his party was not a movement that “shouts, makes noise and disrupts public life”, but one that preserved the state’s identity and built modern Tamil Nadu. In a veiled reference to actor-politician Vijay’s maiden state-wide tour from Tiruchirappalli, where frenzied fans reportedly broke road medians to get close to him, Stalin contrasted the DMK’s style with that of his political adversaries. “The DMK is not a movement that gathers unprincipled crowds and disturbs the public. DMK is not a movement that shouts, makes noise and disrupts public life. When we gather, we assemble as a disciplined battalion; and after the meeting, we disperse as soldiers with a mission,” Stalin wrote in a letter to party cadres.

He urged party members to attend the DMK’s annual Mupperum vizha in Karur on 17 September, commemorating the birth anniversaries of rationalist leader Periyar E V Ramasamy, former Chief Minister C N Annadurai, and the party’s founding day. The celebrations, Stalin said, inspired members to carry forward the DMK’s 75-year legacy. “So, no old or new political adversaries can harm the DMK with a long history of 75 years and going strong,” he added, calling the party a “fortress” rooted in principles. The event will begin at 5pm and will be presided over by general secretary Duraimurugan. Senior leaders including party treasurer T R Baalu, minister K N Nehru and others are also expected to attend.