NEW DELHI: Edappadi K Palaniswami on Sunday hit back at Tamil Nadu deputy chief minister Udhayanidhi Stalin over his “slave” remark, asserting that the “DMK is unable to accept the strength of the AIADMK.””MK Stalin and Udhayanidhi Stalin are focusing only on criticising me in their campaigns, rather than speaking about people’s welfare or government schemes… Neither I nor my party cadres are slaves. While DMK may be a sewer, AIADMK cadres are proud followers of MG Ramachandran and will never accept such labels,” he said, PTI reported.”AIADMK is strong, and DMK is unable to accept this strength, which is why they resort to criticism,” he added.The response came after Udhayanidhi Stalin described the AIADMK-led NDA alliance as a “slave team” and accused Palaniswami of failing to defend Tamil Nadu’s interests, particularly on the NEET issue.”This election is between the Delhi team and the Tamil Nadu team. Our leader is the captain, and we will win. The AIADMK-led NDA alliance is a slave team. The NEET examination was implemented during the AIADMK regime under his leadership,” Udhayanidhi said.”He (Edappadi Palaniswami) failed to raise his voice for Tamil Nadu’s welfare. He is subservient to the Central Government,” he added.PollWho do you think has a stronger campaign strategy in the upcoming elections?AIADMKDMKTVKNone of the above Tamil Nadu will go to polls in a single phase on April 23, with counting scheduled for May 4. The main contest is expected between the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance and the NDA led by AIADMK, while actor-turned-politician Vijay is set to make his electoral debut with his party TVK, adding a third dimension to the contest.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosUS-Iran Deal HITS DEAD END, Trump SHIFTS TO Pakistan Praise, Replays India-Pak War ClaimMEA Slams China’s ‘Mischievous Attempts’, Rejects Fictitious Names to Arunachal Pradesh LocationsUAE Visit: Jaishankar Conveys PM Modi’s Thanks, Highlights India’s Role In Regional StabilityMobile Internet Ban Extended After CRPF Firing Shocker That Killed ProtestersSwami Vivekananda’s First-Ever Life-Size Statue Unveiled In Seattle, US‘Had Great Difficulty’: Stranded Indian Fishermen In Iran Return Home Via Armenia‘India Is New Engine Of Globalisation, Becoming Attractive Investment Hub’: Former WEF DirectorJaishankar Meets UAE FM In Abu Dhabi, Discusses West Asia Situation And Strategic Partnership”Don’t Assume It’s Over” Rajnath Cautions On West Asia ConflictJag Vikram Leads Way, First Indian Ship Through Hormuz Post Ceasefire123PhotostoriesBest non-American sitcoms of all time: ‘Derry Girls’, ‘Schitt’s Creek’ and more10 dishes that make lentils feel anything but ordinarySaas-bahu relationships on Indian TV that were actually wholesome: Devyani-Simar, Sudha-Parvati and more7 iconic breakfasts people eat around the world5 best fantasy dramas to watch on Hulu: From ‘Outlander’ to ‘Attack on Titan’Life lessons hidden in your favourite TV sitcoms: ‘Friends’, ‘The Office’ and more4 simple hacks to keep love aliveMumbai’s top 5 residential buildings redefining luxury and premium livingBefore your blood tests turn abnormal: 6 silent heart warning signs you’re missing, and how to fix them earlyTop temples in India to visit believed to bring wealth and prosperity123Hot PicksIran war ceasefirePAN Card application 2026Purple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingAndhra Pradesh Girl MurderUS Iran talksMI vs RCB Today IPL MatchBadminton Championships FinalPune tempatureTS Inter 1st 2nd Year Result 2026Asha BhosleSara TendulkarSchool Holidays in AprilAyush Shetty
NEW DELHI: Edappadi K Palaniswami on Sunday hit back at Tamil Nadu deputy chief minister Udhayanidhi Stalin over his “slave” remark, asserting that the “DMK is unable to accept the strength of the AIADMK.”“MK Stalin and Udhayanidhi Stalin are focusing only on criticising me in their campaigns, rather than speaking about people’s welfare or government schemes… Neither I nor my party cadres are slaves. While DMK may be a sewer, AIADMK cadres are proud followers of MG Ramachandran and will never accept such labels,” he said, PTI reported.“AIADMK is strong, and DMK is unable to accept this strength, which is why they resort to criticism,” he added.The response came after Udhayanidhi Stalin described the AIADMK-led NDA alliance as a “slave team” and accused Palaniswami of failing to defend Tamil Nadu’s interests, particularly on the NEET issue.“This election is between the Delhi team and the Tamil Nadu team. Our leader is the captain, and we will win. The AIADMK-led NDA alliance is a slave team. The NEET examination was implemented during the AIADMK regime under his leadership,” Udhayanidhi said.“He (Edappadi Palaniswami) failed to raise his voice for Tamil Nadu’s welfare. He is subservient to the Central Government,” he added.
Poll
Who do you think has a stronger campaign strategy in the upcoming elections?
Tamil Nadu will go to polls in a single phase on April 23, with counting scheduled for May 4. The main contest is expected between the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance and the NDA led by AIADMK, while actor-turned-politician Vijay is set to make his electoral debut with his party TVK, adding a third dimension to the contest.