‘Bill brought by Jayalalithaa now implemented’: Edappadi K Palaniswami on Women’s Reservation Bill
Chennai: Tamil Nadu Leader of Opposition and AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami on Friday welcomed the Centre’s move to implement the Women’s Reservation Bill, crediting former Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa for championing the proposal.
Addressing an election rally ahead of the Tamil Nadu Assembly polls, Palaniswami said the 33 per cent reservation for women has long roots in earlier efforts backed by Jayalalithaa during the tenure of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
“Today, the bill for 33% has been introduced in the Parliament during the period of J Jayalalithaa as the Chief Minister and Atal Bihari Vajpayee as Prime Minister. We brought this bill resolution. The bill, which was brought by Jayalalitha, has now been implemented by PM Modi,” he said, highlighting continuity in policy.
EPS attacks DMK over law and order, governance
Stepping up his campaign, the AIADMK leader launched a sharp attack on Chief Minister M K Stalin, accusing the DMK government of failing to ensure safety and development. "Why have the people made Stalin our CM? It's for making Tamil Nadu a developed state but what has he done? He just rides cycles, consumes tea and poses for photographs. Stalin is not able to answers questioned by us and he lies to the public giving false information." Palaniswami asked, alleging that the state has witnessed a rise in drug abuse and crimes against women and children.
He cited recent incidents to question the government’s law and order record, claiming Tamil Nadu is becoming unsafe under the current regime.
Criticism of DMK leaders and candidates
Palaniswami also targeted DMK leader V Senthil Balaji, criticising his candidature from Coimbatore South and accusing him of indulging in “unfair political tactics”.
“Why should Senthil Balaji come from Karur to contest in Coimbatore?... He has a special brain with evil thoughts. He always thinks about how to defeat the opponent in the wrong way. Be aware of Senthil Balaji, and if you don't, then it's your fate,” he told the gathering, intensifying the political rhetoric ahead of polling.
AIADMK promises development push
Highlighting achievements of the previous AIADMK government, Palaniswami said key infrastructure projects, including bridges, were completed during his tenure.
Also Read| DMK vs. AIADMK: Top 6 election promises you need to know
He promised fresh initiatives if voted to power, including:
- Implementation of the Avanashi–Athikadavu irrigation scheme
- Measures to protect farmers from crop damage caused by wildlife
- Strengthening rural and urban infrastructure
He urged voters to “remove the DMK government” and support AIADMK for continued development.
Tamil Nadu Election 2026: Key details
Tamil Nadu will go to the polls in a single phase on April 23, with counting scheduled for May 4.
The main contest is expected between:
- DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance (including Indian National Congress, DMDK, VCK)
- NDA alliance led by AIADMK, along with BJP and PMK
The election is being closely watched as a high-stakes political battle that could reshape the state’s political landscape.
ANI