Tamil Nadu Polls: Stalin, welfarism anchor DMK, says Kanimozhi

DMK's parliamentary party leader Kanimozhi K in an interview with Jatin Takkar defends cash support as growth driver, asserts state's rights and opposes delimitation shift to 2011 census, favouring 1971 baseline.

On DMK's prospects

DMK enters elections on the strength of its delivery. Its governance record reflects improvements in human development indicators and steady economic growth, with Tamil Nadu among the better-performing states. Flagship welfare measures like the breakfast scheme and Magalir Urimai Thogai scheme have had a measurable social impact. Under CM MK Stalin, the party has asserted the state's rights within the federal system.

On manifesto, doles

Putting money directly in people's hands boosts consumption, which supports businesses and drives economy. Our approach is welfare-led growth, aimed at improving quality of life, especially for women. Schemes like the proposed Illathu Arasi initiative, offering ₹8,000 coupons for household appliances, are designed to combine empowerment with demand generation.

On Vijay's Impact

It is premature to assess his impact. I do not see a significant shift. Tamil Nadu's electorate is politically aware and makes informed choices based on governance, ideology and track record.

On Team BJP-AIADMK

Tamil Nadu has a long-standing commitment to secularism, inclusiveness and preservation of its linguistic and cultural identity. Politics perceived as divisive has found limited acceptance in the state and I don't see that changing.

On Triangular contest

Whether it is a two-sided, triangular or multi-cornered contest is for analysts to analyse. On the ground, the momentum is with DMK, and the party is confident of securing a decisive mandate.

On bigger challenger

Leadership is defined by governance and clarity of vision. Stalin's performance over the past five years stands out, and at present, I do not see a comparable challenger (Vijay or Palaniswami).

On LS seat expansion

Southern states have expressed serious concerns. TN has maintained that states that have successfully implemented population control should not be penalised with reduced representation. The CM has written to the PM reiterating that delimitation should be based on 1971 census rather than 2011 census.