Chennai: M K Stalin’s DMK headlined its Lok Sabha manifesto with a host of big commitments supposedly aligned with the INDIA bloc’s poll goals - reversal of the BJP-led central govt’s decisions or proposals to implement CAA and UCC, restoration of J&K’s statehood, and repeal of Article 356, among others.
In the context of Tamil Nadu, DMK’s promise to curtail Raj Bhavan’s powers assumes significance against the backdrop of the Stalin govt’s repeated run-ins with governor R N Ravi. The manifesto states that DMK would, as part of INDIA, also junk BJP’s proposal to implement the “one nation, one election” concept. It promises to cut LPG, petrol and diesel prices to Rs 500, Rs 75 and Rs 65 respectively.
DMK intends to have TN exempted from NEET, the gateway to MBBS admissions, and push for scrapping the national education policy.
“The new (INDIA) govt will undertake actions to appoint governors in consultation with CMs,” the manifesto says. “Section 361 of the Constitution will be removed, ensuring that governors are subject to legal actions.”
On devolution of funds, DMK promises steps to make GST collection an exercise fully managed by state govts. The surplus beyond the state’s share will be provided to the Union govt. Ensuring the autonomous functioning of institutions like Supreme Court, CBI, Election Commission, and UGC is on DMK’s to-do list.
Stalin said the monthly benefit of Rs 1,000 given to women heading families and TN’s breakfast scheme for schoolchildren would be extended to the rest of the country. The manifesto highlights DMK’s social justice plank, saying all Sachar panel recommendations will be implemented. A caste census will be conducted across the country.