NTK chief coordinator Seeman campaigned for his party candidates in Salem district on Thursday. | Photo credit: Special arrangement
Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) chief coordinator Seeman on Thursday claimed that the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and its opposition All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) have an understanding. He alleged that the AIADMK had allotted certain constituencies of sitting DMK ministers to its allies, including the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and that the ruling party would campaign against the BJP to ensure its defeat.
Mr. Seeman, who campaigned for NTK candidates in Mettur, Omalur, Salem South, Salem North, Salem West and Veerapandi constituencies in Salem district, was addressing reporters in Pallapatti. He also alleged that during the DMK tenure, liquor was purchased from factories owned by AIADMK supporters and vice versa during the AIADMK government. He said NTK will also challenge the basis of DMK’s alliance with Indian National Congress.
The chief coordinator of the NTK criticized the Congress, claiming that the party, which has ruled the country for decades, has harmed Tamil interests, including issues related to Cauvery water rights and industrial development. He also accused the Congress of imposing Hindi in the past and introducing policies such as the National Eligibility Test and Goods and Services Tax.
“Alliance now unlikely”
Asked about a possible alliance with Tamilaga Vazhvurimai Katchi of Panruti Velumurugan, Mr. Seeman said NTK had already announced its candidates and started campaigning, so an alliance was unlikely at this stage. He added that the party could consider alliances in the future.
On social measures, Mr Seeman criticized what he described as a “freebie culture” and said NTK would instead favor free access to education, drinking water and healthcare according to international standards. He said that other services will not be provided free under the NTK government. He also said that the NTK government will focus on generating electricity through solar and wind power to ensure uninterrupted power supply and address issues such as hunger and unemployment.
Mr. Seeman questioned the financial feasibility of welfare promises made by other parties, saying that Tamil Nadu’s debt stood at around ₹10.5 million, with significant annual interest payments.
Referring to the announcement by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), led by actor Vijay, he claimed that introducing such programs would require a significant amount of funds, which he said would be difficult given the state’s current financial situation.
Published – 27 March 2026 0:18 IST
