TN polls now a two-cornered fight, says Annamalai

Trichy: BJP leader K Annamalai on Sunday said the Tamil Nadu election has turned into a "clear two-cornered contest" between the NDA and the DMK alliance, and asserted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will implement 33% reservation for women by the 2029 Lok Sabha polls.Addressing a press meet near Thanjavur and campaigning across Trichy, Annamalai said, "The electoral field has, over the past two weeks, become a straight two-way fight. Vijay's entry may create a new vote bank but will not affect the NDA's prospects." He criticised actor-turned-politician Vijay for what he termed "unrealistic" poll promises. "His assurances go far beyond Tamil Nadu's budget. People are watching," he said. Raising concerns over campaign practices, Annamalai alleged that pamphlets were being distributed outside churches in support of specific parties. "Places of worship must remain neutral and accessible to all. Such acts violate the Constitution and election rules," he said. Campaigning in Tiruvarur, Thanjavur and Trichy districts, Annamalai also targeted opposition parties, including the DMK and the Congress, accusing them of stalling the Women's Reservation Bill when linked with the delimitation exercise. "Those who know Prime Minister Modi understand he does not give up once he takes up an issue. Thirty-three percent reservation for women is certain by the 2029 general election," he said, urging voters not to back the DMK or Congress. Speaking in Srirangam and Thanjavur, he claimed the DMK-led alliance was "fragmented" and said its allies were critical of the government's performance. He also pointed out that chief minister M K Stalin and leader of opposition Rahul Gandhi had not campaigned together in any district. Describing the election as a "wedding procession," Annamalai said voters should choose stability and development.