Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin on Tuesday sharply criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), saying that the “fire we lit has turned the bill to ashes,” in a strong political attack during a public outreach programme in the state.
The remarks came as Stalin took aim at the BJP’s “morning walk” campaign in Tamil Nadu, which the party has been organizing as part of its grassroots mobilization efforts. The campaign involves BJP leaders and workers engaging with the public during early morning walks, highlighting central government schemes and attempting to expand the party’s presence in the southern state.
Addressing party workers and the public, Stalin alleged that the BJP’s initiatives in Tamil Nadu have failed to gain traction and accused the party of attempting to mislead people through symbolic campaigns. He suggested that the resistance built by his party, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), has effectively countered the BJP’s political narrative in the state.
Without naming specific legislation, Stalin’s comment about a “bill turning to ashes” was seen as a broader criticism of policies supported by the BJP-led central government. He reiterated that Tamil Nadu would continue to oppose measures that, according to him, go against the interests of the state and its people.
The BJP, however, defended its outreach programme, stating that the “morning walk” campaign has received positive responses from citizens. Party leaders said the initiative is aimed at directly connecting with people, understanding their concerns, and informing them about welfare schemes implemented by the central government.
Political observers view the exchange as part of the ongoing tussle between the DMK and the BJP in Tamil Nadu, where the national party has been trying to expand its base while facing strong opposition from regional forces.
The war of words highlights the intensifying political climate in the state ahead of upcoming elections, with both sides stepping up their campaigns and sharpening their rhetoric.
