Though the BJP has never come to power in Tamil Nadu, the state has always been at the heart of the party, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Tuesday as he addressed a huge rally in Tiruppur.
"Even though the BJP has not been in power in Tamil Nadu, the state has always been at the heart of the BJP. All my Tamil brothers and sisters understand this and are aware of it. So those who have looted the state for decades are scared of the increasing power of the BJP (in the state). Tamil Nadu has always given me unconditional love," Modi said.
The prime minister was addressing the valedictory of BJP state unit President K. Annamalai's state-wide yatra, which culminated at Tiruppur’s Palladam on Tuesday.
The six-month-long padayatra was launched by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the state's pilgrim town of Rameswaram on July 28, 2023.
Modi launched a sharp attack on the opposition and said those parties wanted to save their power by lying, dividing people, and making people fight amongst each other. “But the people of Tamil Nadu are as intelligent as they are pure of heart. They know the truth; they know the reality."
The prime minister claimed that the Kongu region of Tamil Nadu represents India's growth story in many ways.
"It is one of India's most vibrant textile and industry hubs. It also contributes to our country's wind energy capacity. This region is also known for its spirit of enterprise. Our risk-taking entrepreneurs and MSMEs play a role in making us the fastest-growing economy," he said.
Modi hails MGR, Jayalalithaa
Interestingly, Modi hailed late AIADMK stalwarts M.G. Ramachandran and Jayalalithaa in his speech even as the Dravidian party, a former ally of the BJP, had categorically ruled out a return to the National Demoratic Alliance.
“Late MGR did not practise dynasty politics and is still remembered by the people of Tamil Nadu for his work,” Modi said, adding that the former chief minister promoted people based on talent and not on the basis of family.
"If there was anyone after MGR, it was 'Amma' Jayalalithaa ji, who gave her entire life for the people's welfare," he further said.
The AIADMK snapped its ties with the BJP in September last year, accusing the saffron leaders, including Annadurai, of using defamatory remarks against the Dravidian stalwarts.