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 (Let's protect people, retrieve Tamil Nadu) campaign, spoke to T Muruganandham in Tiruttani in Tenkasi in an exclusive interview. He spoke about his party's prospects, the alleged failures of the DMK, and the BJP's stance on coalition government. Edited excerpts:

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

We 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 the party.

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

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

We chose a reliable partnership (with the BJP) and entered into an early alliance. When one starts campaigning only during the election season, it is difficult 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 other governments have taken effective measures to bring down the debt. Do you have any plans?

We will cut down on extravagant spending and concentrate on welfare schemes. We will not implement schemes for self-promotion. Those that won't benefit the people will be avoided.