On July 13, 2025, Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS), the resolute leader of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), electrified Cuddalore with his “Makkalai Kaappom, Thamizhagathai Meetpom” (Let’s Protect the People, Revive Tamil Nadu) campaign, a cornerstone of the party’s strategy for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. The day’s events, part of EPS’s statewide outreach, showcased AIADMK’s aggressive push to challenge the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) under Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, blending grassroots fervor with sharp political jabs.
EPS led a vibrant roadshow in Cuddalore, addressing thousands from his campaign bus, adorned with the AIADMK’s iconic two-leaves symbol and the rallying cry “Tamil Nadu’s Pride, People’s Victory.” His speech was a blistering critique of the DMK’s governance, accusing Stalin of sidelining public welfare for family interests. “Stalin preaches progress but paves the way for his son’s rise as Deputy Chief Minister, ignoring the cries of Cuddalore’s farmers and fishermen,” EPS declared, igniting cheers. He slammed the DMK for scrapping AIADMK’s welfare initiatives, like the Amma Baby Care Kit and free electricity for farmers, while pointing to the Kallakurichi hooch tragedy as a stark symbol of their administrative failures.
The AIADMK’s digital campaign roared to life on July 13, with its IT wing launching the “DMK’s End Is Near!” hashtag. Freshly crafted infographics spotlighted the DMK’s unfulfilled promises, including affordable essentials and improved infrastructure, resonating with Cuddalore’s youth. EPS’s focus on Cuddalore’s key constituencies, like Kurinjipadi, highlighted his strategy to reclaim AIADMK’s influence in the region, with supporters chanting “EPS: Tamil Nadu’s Savior!” as they waved party flags.
EPS reiterated the AIADMK’s alliance with the BJP, promising to deliver central schemes to uplift Cuddalore’s rural communities. He ridiculed Stalin’s claim of winning 200 seats in 2026 as “a delusion of a failing regime.” The day concluded with EPS engaging with local traders and farmers, pledging to revive AIADMK’s legacy of inclusive governance. With its dynamic mix of bold oratory, digital outreach, and grassroots energy, AIADMK’s campaign in Cuddalore is setting the stage for a fierce battle to topple the DMK in 2026.
