'Can't even question taxes on buns': Stalin takes a Federalism dig at Centre

Tamil Nadu chief minister and DMK party president MK Stalin has made a strong call for state autonomy. At the party's platinum jubilee celebration on Tuesday (September 17), he announced the party’s plan to pursue legal avenues to amend the Constitution, aiming to grant greater power to state governments.

Speaking at the Mupperum Vizha and the 75th anniversary of the DMK, Stalin pointed out the principle of state autonomy championed by Perarignar Anna and Kalaignar Karunanidhi. He referred to Karunanidhi's famous remark that while the DMK may govern from the fort, it lacks the authority to even trim the grass there.

Now, the situation is so constrained that the state cannot even question taxes on simple items such as cream buns, Stalin added. His platinum jubilee message underscored a commitment to securing autonomy for Tamil Nadu.

DMK sole voice

Stalin reiterated that the DMK has always been the sole voice advocating for state rights and autonomy, and it has remained loyal to the people, which explains their continued support.

"Victory is with us because the people are with us," he declared. The chief minister dedicated the party's recent electoral successes to the dedication of the DMK cadre and expressed confidence in winning future elections, particularly the 2026 Assembly polls.

However, he cautioned against complacency and urged the party to stay focused on the goal of making history with an overwhelming victory.

DMK general secretary Duraimurugan, setting the stage for Stalin's message, warned the BJP-led NDA government at the Centre that any continued imposition of Hindi would provoke the full force of the DMK’s resistance.

DMK's achievements

Reflecting on the party's legacy, he reminded the audience that the DMK's achievements include reforms like allowing Dalits to wear slippers and enter temples.

Several other senior leaders, including DMK treasurer TR Baalu and deputy general secretaries A Raja and Ponmudy, also addressed the gathering. Stalin presented awards in honour of party stalwarts Periyar, Anna, and Kalaignar to veterans like Pappammal, MISA Ramanathan, and others.

The celebration saw renewed calls for the elevation of Udhayanidhi Stalin, the DMK's youth wing secretary and state sports minister. SS Palanimanickam, a former MP who received the inaugural MK Stalin Award, urged the leadership to name Udhayanidhi as the deputy chief minister, just as Stalin himself was once elevated by Perasiriyar Anbazhagan.

In a surprise twist, an AI-generated image of Karunanidhi appeared virtually at the event, seated alongside Stalin, and delivered a message to the party cadre, adding an emotional and futuristic touch to the celebration.