Stalin attacks Centre over ‘women’s quota’ pitch; ramps up poll promises in Tamil Nadu

NEW DELHI: Chief Minister M K Stalin on Sunday accused the BJP-led Union government of attempting to reduce Tamil Nadu’s political representation under the pretext of the proposed women’s reservation, as he addressed an election rally in Paramakudi and stepped up campaign promises ahead of the polls.Alleging a “betrayal” of southern states, Stalin said the Centre was seeking to penalise regions like Tamil Nadu that had successfully implemented population control measures and contributed significantly to national growth. He asserted that democratic forces across the country would oppose the move. “Does AIADMK chief Palaniswami have the courage to oppose and question this injustice?” Stalin said, targeting the opposition and questioning its stance on the issue.The Chief Minister also outlined a series of welfare measures, promising that the number of buses under the fare-free travel scheme for women would be increased if the DMK returns to power with what he described as a “Dravidian model 2.0” government.Highlighting the impact of existing schemes, Stalin said that under the free bus travel initiative, women had undertaken more than 935 crore trips over 1,800 days. He described the DMK’s manifesto as the “election superstar” and reiterated the promise of an Rs 8,000 coupon for purchasing home appliances.On fishermen’s welfare, he said seaweed cultivation would be encouraged and added that the Union government would be urged to take back Katchatheevu, without directly naming Sri Lanka.Earlier in the day, Stalin conducted a morning walk in Paramakudi, interacting with residents and seeking their support as campaigning gathers pace in the state.