Tamil Nadu election pitch intensifies as PM Modi coins ‘CMC’ jibe at DMK | WATCH

Chennai: Addressing a public meeting in Madurantakam in Tamil Nadu’s Chengalpattu district, Prime Minister Narendra Modi alleged that the DMK government had “betrayed the trust” of the people despite winning two consecutive terms with a full majority. He claimed the state was now ready for political change.

“You gave DMK a full majority twice, but they broke the trust of the people of Tamil Nadu. DMK made heaps of promises but delivered zero work,” Modi said, coining the acronym “CMC” to describe the ruling party, which he said stood for “Corruption, Mafia and Crime”.

“The people of Tamil Nadu have now made up their minds to uproot both DMK and CMC. Here, a BJP-NDA double-engine government is certain to come to power,” he added.

The Prime Minister further alleged that the DMK lacked democratic values and accountability, accusing it of serving the interests of a single family rather than the wider public. He claimed that internal advancement within the party favoured dynastic connections or those willing to engage in misconduct, assertions that the DMK has previously rejected.

Modi said the large turnout at the rally reflected public dissatisfaction with the current government. “The message is that Tamil Nadu is now ready for a change. The state wants liberation from misrule of DMK,” he said, adding that the “countdown of DMK’s exit has begun”.

Beginning his address, Modi paid tribute to former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MG Ramachandran and freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on his birth anniversary, observed as Parakram Diwas. He highlighted Tamil Nadu’s historical contributions to India’s freedom struggle, saying bravery and patriotism were deeply rooted in the state’s culture.

Tamil Nadu is expected to go to the polls in the first half of 2026, with the DMK-led alliance facing challenges from the BJP-led NDA as well as newer political formations, including actor Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam.

Earlier in the day, during a separate visit to Kerala, Modi also made electoral assurances linked to the Sabarimala issue, indicating a broader southern outreach strategy as election season approaches.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal described the Prime Minister’s visit as a key moment for the NDA’s campaign in Tamil Nadu, calling it a signal of intensified preparations ahead of the Assembly elections.
(With ANI inputs)