Previous AIADMK govt. failed to act effectively in crimes against women, alleges CM Stalin

DMK president and Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Thursday (April 2, 2026) said the ‘Dravidian model’ of governance had ensured all-round development across the State, and alleged that women’s safety was compromised during the previous AIADMK regime led by Edappadi K. Palaniswami.

Targeting Mr. Palaniswami, Mr. Stalin referred to the Pollachi sexual assault case and the harassment of a woman Superintendent of Police by a Special DGP, and claimed that the previous regime had failed to act effectively. He said the present government had ensured punishment for the accused and relief for victims.

Addressing an Assembly election meeting in Erode, Mr. Stalin canvassed votes for the DMK and Secular Progressive Alliance candidates. He cited the implementation of the Athikadavu-Avinashi project, inauguration of the turmeric research centre, conversion of conditional pattas into full ownership, establishment of government colleges in Anthiyur and Thalavadi, and implementation of combined drinking water schemes in parts of the district.

Stating that development over the past five years had been planned and executed across sectors, he said welfare measures had reached all sections, with “at least one beneficiary in every household” in the State.

Schemes aimed at women had enhanced financial independence and were being emulated by other States, he added.

In 86% of cases involving crimes against women and children, chargesheets were filed within 60 days, he said.

CM calls NDA a ‘betraying alliance’

Criticising the NDA, Mr. Stalin flagged issues such as NEET, rejection of Metro Rail projects, anti-farmer laws, and challenges faced by MSMEs. He also alleged attempts to impose Hindi and encroach on State rights. Describing the NDA as a “betraying alliance”, he urged voters to back the DMK-led front. “Our struggle is not merely for electoral victory, but for the State’s rights and continued development,” he said.

Former CPI State secretary R. Mutharasan, Ministers S. Muthusamy and M.P. Saminathan, MPs MPs Anthiyur P. Selvaraj and K.E. Prakash, and West Zone in-charge for election work V. Senthilbalaji participated.