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The Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), a political party led by actor-turned-politician Vijay, has voiced its strong disapproval of the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) proposed 'One Nation, One Election' plan. In a resolution passed by the party, TVK declared the plan as a violation of the fundamental principles of democracy and federalism, underscoring its commitment to upholding the autonomy of individual states within the Indian federal system. This stance highlights a growing trend of regional parties challenging the central government's policy agenda, particularly on issues perceived to be detrimental to state rights and interests.
Beyond the 'One Nation, One Election' issue, TVK has also targeted the BJP on the contentious NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) examination. The party has demanded that education be brought under the state list, arguing that this would empower state governments to revoke NEET, a crucial demand for Tamil Nadu, which has witnessed significant protests against the exam. TVK's resolution on NEET further criticizes the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government for failing to deliver on its promise to repeal NEET, accusing them of betraying the people of Tamil Nadu. This critical stance emphasizes the importance of education policy within the broader discourse on federalism and state autonomy, showcasing the complex interplay between national and regional priorities in the Indian political landscape.
Beyond education and electoral reforms, TVK's criticisms extend to the DMK's performance in governance. The party has accused the ruling DMK of failing to effectively manage law and order, maintain control over liquor sales, and address the issue of drug abuse. TVK's resolution demands a phased closure of government-owned liquor shops, signaling a commitment to addressing social issues through a more stringent approach to regulation. The criticism of DMK's social justice initiatives further highlights the party's strategy of emphasizing social justice while also engaging in a direct contest for power within the state.
TVK has also taken aim at the BJP's legislative agenda, specifically opposing the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024, currently under review by a Joint Parliamentary Committee. The party views the bill as an attack on federalism and has called for its withdrawal. The resolution emphasizes the concerns about the bill's potential impact on the rights of Muslims, reflecting the party's commitment to upholding religious freedoms and protecting the rights of minority communities. This stance showcases TVK's active engagement in national issues beyond its focus on Tamil Nadu, highlighting its desire to play a broader role in shaping the Indian political landscape.
The meeting concluding with the reiteration of TVK's commitment to secularism and social justice underscores the party's ideological foundation. This commitment forms the bedrock of their political actions and positions them within the larger spectrum of Indian political parties. While TVK's approach to issues like NEET and 'One Nation, One Election' aligns with other regional parties, its focus on specific state-level concerns distinguishes it within the larger political landscape. With its active engagement in national discourse, TVK aims to solidify its position as a force to be reckoned with within the Tamil Nadu political arena and potentially influence the national political landscape.
Source: Actor Vijay's Party TVK Opposes "One Nation One Election" Plan