To defeat a powerful adversary, a strong alliance is vital: EPS

AIADMK leader refuses to confirm whether BJP will be part of the cabinet if AIADMK gets majority on its own in 2026 state Assembly election; says this is not Lok Sabha polls to impose conditions on NEET, NEP to BJP

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DAPPADI K Palaniswami, AIADMK general secretary, who is on a whirlwind tour of Tamil Nadu as part of his Makkalai Kaapom izhagathai Meetpom (Let's protect people, retrieve Nadu) campaign, spoke to IE's T Muruganandham in Courtallam in Tenkasi district in an exclusive interview. He spoke about his party's electoral prospects, the alleged excesses of the DMK, and the DMK's stance on coalition government. Edited excerpts:

I have completed your campaign in more than 50 Assembly constituencies. What is your assessment of the people's mood?

I have been able to sense clearly that the people desire a change in Tamil Nadu's politics and governance. Moreover, the people believe that only the AIADMK can bring that change. There is overwhelming support for me and the party.

You have begun this campaign eight months ahead of the elections. Are there any specific reasons?

As a farmer, I've taken to heart the saying kaalathey sei (cultivate/sow at the right time). Doing so ensures success.

Therefore, I chose a reliable partnership (with BJP) and entered the field early with a clear vision. If one starts campaigning only during the election season, it is impossible to reach out to people in all 234 constituencies.

You have expressed your concern about Tamil Nadu's debt burden. There is a perception that no governments have taken concrete measures to bring down the debt. Do you have a plan?

We will cut down on extravagant spending and concentrate on welfare schemes. We will not start schemes for self-promotion or those that won't benefit the people.