Oppn in panic over welfare announcements: Vaiko

Trichy: MDMK founder and general secretary Vaiko on Tuesday said the opposition was in "panic" over the welfare announcements made by chief minister M K Stalin, asserting that the DMK-led alliance would return to power with a clear majority.Speaking to reporters at the Trichy airport, Vaiko said the chief minister had won the support of women across Tamil Nadu through the 5,000 assistance given recently under the Magalir Urimai Thogai scheme. He also defended the state's interim budget, stating that the govt had presented measures aimed at generating employment and ensuring economic progress.Responding to AIADMK's criticism that the interim budget, he said such remarks were politically motivated and would be ignored by the DMK alliance. On reports that Vedanta plans to restart operations in Tuticorin under the name "Green Copper," Vaiko urged the govt to remain cautious and ensure that the Sterlite plant does not return in any form, citing strong opposition from residents, fishermen and farmers. He also expressed confidence that the DMK-Congress alliance would remain intact despite stray criticism from some Congress leaders.