After the election results were announced, we are witnessing the events that are unfolding. The assembly election results had turned out in a manner where no party secured the majority needed to form a government. Even though the secular progressive alliance, led by the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, did not obtain the majority seats required to form a government, we have garnered a significant number of votes.
In the interview I had already given to the press, I had stated that we would not obstruct the formation of a new government and that the DMK would function as a constructive opposition party.
Thereafter, in the meeting of assembly members held under my leadership, they entrusted me with the responsibility of decision-making. In that meeting, I had conveyed that “keeping the interests of the party in mind, I would consult with the headquarters administrators and arrive at a decision.”
In a situation where no one secured the majority to form a government, many put forward alternative ideas. As far as I am concerned, whatever decision our allied parties take, I believed that we should respect their decision, act in coordination, ensure a stable government is formed, and not pave the way for another election.
I welcome the announcement by our alliance comrades that “to avoid the current crisis, even if we express support for the Tamil Nadu Victory Federation to form the government, we continue in the DMK-led secular progressive alliance on the basis of policy.”
The Congress MLAs who contested and won on behalf of the alliance did not come to Anna Arivalayam to express their thanks. On the same day, the Congress party severed ties with the DMK and proceeded. At the same time, Communist leaders Comrade Shanmugam and Comrade Veerapandian, along with Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi party leader Thirumavalavan, have announced that they will continue to join hands with the DMK and fight for the rights of Tamil Nadu and the welfare of the people, thereby expressing a sense of camaraderie and demonstrating their trust in the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, which is strong in policy.
At this crucial time of testing, I express my deepest gratitude from the heart to all the alliance movement leaders who stood firmly with us, including Professor Aaya Kather Mohideen, Annan Vaiko, Sister Premalatha Vijayakanth, Professor Jawahirlulla, and brothers Eswaran and Tamimun Ansari. No amount of thanks or praise can suffice for their steadfastness.
Over the past five years, we have developed Tamil Nadu in all sectors and enriched the state. Through numerous schemes, we have created opportunities for every individual to benefit.
It is my personal wish that the new government, which will be formed, continues those schemes, which were conceived with far-sighted thinking and rich planning.
If all schemes encompassing women, youth, students, children, marginalized people, and government employees are continued to be implemented, the benefits to the people will persist, and the state will grow. I request the new government to take this into consideration and act accordingly.
Once again, I extend my best wishes to the new government that will be formed.
