DMK Chief Stalin Dismisses Vijay’s Jibe, Says ‘I Am in People’s Hearts’

DMK president M K Stalin on Thursday said the party would examine the growing public opinion that it may no longer require electoral alliances , while making it clear that he would not voluntarily distance the party from existing partners.

Speaking at a marriage function of a party worker’s family, Stalin responded to remarks by DMK MP A Raja , who had suggested that the party could contest elections without alliances. Stalin said he would consider Raja’s view, but recalled the approach of late DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi , who always ensured that alliances remained intact.

“Karunanidhi always protected alliances. I will not leave any alliance. But if partners leave on their own, I cannot do anything,” Stalin said. He added that the recent public sentiment favouring a solo electoral strategy would also be taken into consideration.

Stalin also launched a sharp attack on Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay , referring to Vijay’s recent remark in the Assembly questioning the whereabouts of Stalin while targeting Leader of Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin .

“Do not search for the father there; he is etched in the hearts of the people,” Stalin said, asserting that his political presence extended beyond the Assembly. He said he had spent 60 years in politics and remained connected with the people.

Taking a dig at the state government, Stalin advised Vijay to examine government files at the Secretariat rather than look for him in the Assembly. He highlighted schemes such as the Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thogai , Pudhumai Penn , and Tamil Pudhalvan , saying his contribution could be seen through official records.

Stalin also criticised the government over power cuts and delays in releasing water for Delta farmers , contrasting it with his tenure when water from the Mettur dam was released on schedule every year.