Elections and Pandemic Politics: The BJP and Other Parties in Tamil Nadu

Introduction

During times of crisis, politics often take a backseat as governments focus on urgent matters. However, in Tamil Nadu, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and other political parties are using the ongoing pandemic as a tool to secure their electoral gains, sometimes at the expense of public welfare. This article examines the tactics employed by these parties, focusing on the BJP, to garner support in the midst of the public health crisis.

BJP’s Strains During the Pandemic

The BJP, like many other parties, has been utilizing the pandemic for its political gains. In Tamil Nadu, the BJP has organized various events to appear engaged with the public. For instance, they have provided Rs. 2500 for Pongal celebrations to all ration card holders. However, this initiative is met with skepticism as many citizens are aware that such funds come from their hard-earned taxes and not from a benevolent government. The persisting misuse of public funds for such events highlights the deeper issue of transparency and accountability in governance.

ADMK: Promotional Propaganda Without Substance

The All India Dr. Mangal Pandey Kranti Dal (ADMK), another prominent political party in Tamil Nadu, has resorted to dubious tactics to drum up support. They have been using government funds to promote their party on private channels with extensive advertisements featuring Ms. Jayalalitha and Mr. EP Sankaran. This strategy not only blurs the line between public service and political propaganda but also raises concerns about the ethical use of public resources. By positioning themselves as parties of the people, they are instead exploiting public sentiments to secure political gains.

DMK: Seeking Public Support Through Local Engagements

In contrast, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has taken a different approach. The party has been actively engaging in Grama Sabha meetings and listening to the concerns of villagers. The sudden focus on grassroots politics, with Mr. Stalin, the party leader, actively participating in many of these events, can be seen as a strategic move to re-establish a connection with the masses. This move highlights the DMK's attempt to demonstrate genuine public service, especially in times when other parties seem more self-serving.

Suspicious Roadwork and Politician Switches

The period leading up to elections has seen a variety of suspicious activities in Tamil Nadu. In my neighborhood, an old, poorly maintained road has been unexpectedly repaved with pavement stones just three to four months before the elections. This sudden change, after almost a decade of inactivity, raises questions about the true intentions behind such rapid infrastructure projects. Similar patterns have been observed in other parts of the state, suggesting a broader trend in the manipulation of public resources for political gains.

Another concerning trend is the sudden change in allegiance by political figures. For instance, Ms. Kushboo, who was previously a member of the Congress, now finds herself part of the BJP. Such switches are often made to align with the dominant party in the region, with little regard for public opinion or policy consistency. These moves reflect a political landscape where loyalty is often more fluid than principles.

A Disgusting Pongal Celebration

The aftermath of a recent Pongal celebration in Tamil Nadu has sparked widespread amusement and criticism. The event featured a bizarre scenario where traditional methods of preparing Pongal were replaced with artificial and modern alternatives. Instead of using fire to cook the dish, electricity was employed, and instead of traditional grinding of turmeric, packets were crushed. The video of this spectacle, shared by The Times of India, highlights the disconnect between traditional values and the modern politics of pandering to the masses.

The criticism towards such events underscores the need for a more sincere and genuine approach to public service. While political parties have the right to engage with their supporters, the methods used to garner favor should be centered on public welfare rather than entertainment or spectacle.

In conclusion, the political landscape in Tamil Nadu during the pandemic has been characterized by a mix of opportunist tactics and genuine public engagement. While some parties strive to connect with the grassroots and address genuine public concerns, others seem to use the crisis as a means to secure a political victory. As elections approach, it is crucial for citizens to remain vigilant and hold their representatives accountable for their actions.