Chennai, Tamil Nadu – As the Tamil Nadu assembly elections approach, Chief Minister MK Stalin initiated the transfer of ₹5,000 to women beneficiaries under the Kalaignar Women’s Rights Scheme on Friday. This allocation comprised an advance payment of ₹3,000 for the months of February, March, and April, complemented by an additional ₹2,000 designated as a summer special package. The Chief Minister stated that the funds have been credited to the bank accounts of 1.31 crore women across the state.
Government’s Position on Election Threats
In a post shared on X, Stalin asserted that there were attempts to hinder the Women’s Rights Grant ahead of the elections. He emphasized that the government acted proactively to prevent any disruption to the beneficiaries. He stated, “This grant is a promise to the women of Tamil Nadu. Regardless of the obstacles placed in front of us, I will not withdraw from this commitment.” He also accused opponents of using the election as an excuse to block the payments for three months.
Future Commitments Under Dravidian Model 2.0
Stalin further elaborated on the future of the financial assistance, pledging that if re-elected, the existing ₹1,000 monthly payment would increase to ₹2,000 under the proposed “Dravidian Model 2.0.” He characterized this promise as a commitment to support the women of Tamil Nadu, assuring that they would continue to receive assistance as part of their electoral agenda.
AIADMK’s Election Promises Unveiled
In the political landscape, the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) has unveiled a series of five election promises. These include raising social security pensions from ₹1,200 to ₹2,000 for various groups such as senior citizens and individuals with disabilities. Additional promises focus on waiving education loans for students, providing three free LPG cylinders annually to rice ration card holders, ensuring support for the traditional sport Jallikattu, and offering interest-free loans for women from minority backgrounds for self-employment initiatives.
AIADMK’s Additional Welfare Schemes
Earlier this January, AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami introduced the first phase of electoral commitments. These included the Women’s Welfare Kulavilakku Scheme, which aims to provide ₹2,000 monthly assistance to families holding ration cards, credited to the female head of the family. The party also proposed free bus travel for men and continued free travel for women, new housing under the Amma Illam Scheme, and enhanced employment opportunities.
Security Measures for Upcoming Political Events
As the electoral season intensifies, the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) plans a tightly controlled meeting on Friday in Seelanayakkanpatti, Salem. Party chief Vijay is expected to address close to 5,000 participants, with strict entry requirements enforced through passes with QR codes. Authorities have implemented heavy police presence and traffic diversions to maintain safety, particularly after a September incident at a TVK gathering that resulted in significant casualties.
Upcoming Assembly Elections
The 234-member Tamil Nadu Assembly is set for elections in the first half of this year. The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) secured 133 seats in the previous assembly elections held in 2021, while Congress won 18, PMK gained 5, VCK obtained 4, and other parties claimed 8 seats. The political climate remains charged as parties strategize for the upcoming polls.
