DMDK Seeks Bharat Ratna for Vijayakanth, Reaffirms DMK Alliance

DMDK general secretary Premalatha Vijayakanth reiterated her party's demand to confer the Bharat Ratna on its late founder-leader Vijayakanth during a press conference held at the party headquarters in Chennai. The announcement coincided with the unveiling of a series of welfare drives across Tamil Nadu to mark Vijayakanth's 74th birth anniversary, observed as "Poverty Eradication Day".

Premalatha stated that the DMDK has submitted a formal representation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging the Union government to bestow India's highest civilian honour on the late leader.

Reaffirming the party's political alignment, Premalatha asserted that the DMDK firmly remains in the DMK-led alliance for upcoming local body and bye-elections. Addressing questions about political loyalty, she maintained that the party would not shift its stance once an alliance decision is made, regardless of any inducements. She also criticised politicians who switch allegiances, remarking that those who frequently jump parties lack history and identity.

Detailing welfare initiatives, Premalatha announced that the party will open the "Captain Free Computer Centre" and free tailoring training centres for women in the Virudhachalam constituency, resuming programmes first launched in 2006. In collaboration with Vasan Eye Care, free eye-care and medical camps will be conducted in Chennai and Virudhachalam to benefit around 4,000 people. The party also plans to distribute RO water units, iron boxes, sewing machines, and provide educational and medical assistance.

During the event, a commemorative souvenir titled 'Captain Murasu' was released. The party handed over a cheque for Rs 1 lakh from the Vallal Vijayakanth Trust to senior leader L K Sudhish to present to the Delhi Tamil Sangam, along with Rs 50,000 and meals to the MGR School.

Premalatha added that the DMDK continues to seek exemption from NEET for Tamil Nadu, the release of Cauvery river water, and the sanctioning of railway and infrastructure projects. She also voiced opposition to distributing free luxury vehicles to legislators, noting that over 90 per cent of MLAs already own multiple vehicles and urging the state government to prioritise farmer loan waivers, milk procurement prices, and public healthcare amid Tamil Nadu's Rs 10 lakh crore debt burden.