MDMK General Secretary Vaiko
| Photo Credit: File Photo
Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MDMK) General Secretary Vaiko characterised the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance as a ‘steel fortress’ that remained impenetrable to political rivals.
Speaking to reporters here on Wednesday, he declared that the ruling alliance was already maintaining a significant lead in the electoral race through its proactive State-level conferences and strategic planning.
“I am firmly convinced that the DMK-led alliance will secure a landslide victory in the 2026 Assembly elections,” Mr. Vaiko stated.
He further predicted that the DMK would secure an absolute majority on its own merit, ensuring that ‘Dravidian Model’ of governance continued to shape the State’s future beyond 2026.
When questioned about the recent reunion of AIADMK’s Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) and AMMK’s T.T.V. Dhinakaran—who have previously been vocal critics of one another—Mr. Vaiko maintaining a neutral stance, commented, “Parties changing alliances or shifting their rhetoric is a reality of democracy. It is not unique to Tamil Nadu; it happens everywhere. Therefore, I have no criticism to offer on that front.”
Addressing rumors of friction between the DMK and its long-term ally, the Congress, Vaiko dismissed the concerns. He further noted that reports of DMK leader Kanimozhi meeting with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi suggested a positive effort to solidify ties. “Personal grievances may exist between individuals, but when leadership-level talks occur, those issues inevitably vanish,” he added.
Mr. Vaiko launched a scathing attack on the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government regarding the recent Union Budget.
He accused the Centre of ‘step-motherly treatment’ toward Tamil Nadu, alleging that funds were being withheld while BJP-ruled states receive preferential allocation.
“Prime Minister’s attempts to mislead the people of Tamil Nadu with falsehoods during his visits will not succeed,” he remarked. He contrasted this with the DMK government’s performance, stating that their welfare schemes were being effectively promoted across all 234 constituencies.
Answering a question on the delayed release of Jana Nayagan, he said, preventing a film from reaching the public was contrary to the spirit of democracy.
Published – January 28, 2026 07:19 pm IST
