DMK leader and former Union Minister Dayanidhi Maran has accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of using the women’s reservation issue as an electoral tool, stating that “Tamil Nadu will not be fooled” by what he described as political messaging ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections.
Addressing party workers and speaking to the media in Chennai, Maran alleged that the central government has been projecting women’s empowerment initiatives in a way that is timed with election campaigns rather than ensuring immediate and effective implementation. He claimed that key promises related to women’s reservation in legislative bodies are being “repeatedly delayed” while being highlighted during political campaigns.
Maran said that the DMK supports genuine measures for women’s empowerment but insisted that such policies should not be used for “electoral branding.” He argued that Tamil Nadu voters are politically aware and would not be influenced by what he called “symbolic announcements without timely execution.”
Referring to the broader political climate, the DMK leader said that the state’s electorate has historically responded to development-oriented governance rather than campaign narratives. He added that Tamil Nadu’s political culture is rooted in “self-respect and informed decision-making.”
The remarks come amid intensified campaigning in Tamil Nadu, where major political parties are actively promoting their manifestos and governance records. The women’s reservation issue has become a key talking point in national and state-level political discourse, with parties debating its implementation timeline and impact.
The BJP has previously highlighted its commitment to women’s empowerment through various welfare schemes and legislative initiatives, while DMK leaders have raised concerns about delays and implementation gaps in centrally announced policies.
Political analysts note that gender-focused policies are increasingly becoming central to election narratives, with parties attempting to appeal to women voters through targeted promises and welfare schemes.
As campaigning intensifies, sharp exchanges between ruling and opposition parties are expected to continue, with both sides focusing on governance records, policy delivery, and voter outreach across Tamil Nadu’s diverse constituencies.
