The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) made a significant announcement on Wednesday by revealing its lineup of 21 candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Concurrently, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin introduced the party’s manifesto for the election, taking aim at the BJP and accusing them of damaging India’s progress.
Stalin, while presenting the manifesto, emphasized that it is not merely a document from the DMK but a reflection of the people’s aspirations. He criticized the BJP’s track record since coming to power in 2014, alleging that their promises remained unfulfilled and that India suffered as a result. He reiterated the DMK’s commitment to the INDIA Alliance and expressed confidence in forming the government in 2024. The manifesto includes special schemes for Tamil Nadu, with detailed plans outlined for each district.
Speaking on the party’s tradition of fulfilling manifesto commitments, Stalin highlighted the importance of listening to the people’s voices across the state, a sentiment echoed by Kanimozhi, another prominent leader.
The DMK’s manifesto also addresses governance issues, particularly regarding the Governor’s office. It advocates for the appointment of a Governor in consultation with the Chief Minister and proposes amendments to Article 361, which provides immunity to Governors from criminal proceedings. Additionally, the manifesto pledges to designate Thirukural as the ‘National Book’ and opposes the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP), NEET, CAA, and UCC in Tamil Nadu.
In conjunction with the manifesto launch, the DMK unveiled its initial list of candidates for the Lok Sabha elections. Notable among them is Kanimozhi, who will be contesting from Thoothukudi. The list includes both new faces and experienced leaders, showcasing a blend of fresh energy and seasoned expertise.
The candidates announced by the DMK include Kalanidhi Veerasami from North Chennai, Tamilachi Thangapandian from South Chennai, Dayanidhi Maaran from Central Chennai, TR Balu from Sriperumbatur, Jagathrachahan from Arakonam, Kandhir from Vellore, Annadurai from Thiruvanamalai, Dharani from Aarani, Selvagapathi from Selam, Prakash from Erode, A Raja from Nilgiris, Ganapathi Rajkumar from Kovai, Arun Neru from Perambalur, Murasoli from Tanjore, Thanga Tamil Selvam from Theni, Rani from Thenkasi, and Malaiarasan from Kallakurichi. Eeswarasamy will contest from Pollachi, Ganapathy Rajkumar from Coimbatore, and Thangathamizchelvan from Theni.
The DMK’s alliance with the Congress and other parties is a significant aspect of their electoral strategy. The Congress will contest nine seats in Tamil Nadu, while other allies like VCK, CPM, and CPI will contest two seats each. IUML, KMDK, and MDMK will contest one seat each.
In the previous Lok Sabha elections in 2019, the DMK-led alliance secured a remarkable victory by winning 38 out of 39 seats. The Congress, part of the alliance, won eight seats out of the nine contested.
Meanwhile, the AIADMK also announced its first list of 16 candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections 2024. The electoral process in Tamil Nadu is scheduled for April 19 in a single phase, with the Election Commission issuing a notification for the first phase of elections on the same day. Polling will be conducted in seven phases across the nation from April 19 to June 1, with the results expected to be declared on June 4.
