Udhayanidhi Stalin Frames TN Assembly Elections as Battle Between State and Delhi

Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin characterized the 2026 Assembly elections as a decisive contest between the Tamil Nadu team and the Delhi-based central government. Speaking in Coimbatore, he urged voters to support DMK candidates V. Senthilbalaji and Durai Senthamil Selvan in the Coimbatore South and North constituencies, respectively. Stalin emphasized that the state team must prevail to protect local interests. He criticized the Central government for allegedly neglecting Tamil Nadu, citing the absence of state mentions in the Union Budget and the denial of funds for education and the Coimbatore metro rail project. In contrast, he highlighted the achievements of the current Chief Minister M.K. Stalin under the Dravida model, referencing assurances made in the election manifesto. The Deputy Chief Minister stressed the importance of retaining Coimbatore as a stronghold for the DMK, asserting that the electorate is aware of the state government's contributions and future plans. This rhetoric underscores the ongoing political tension between the regional Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam party and the central administration ahead of the crucial state polls.