Puducherry, April 7 (IANS) Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on the BJP-led Centre, alleging that Puducherry is being used as a “testing ground” for policies that he described as detrimental to the public.

Addressing campaign meetings for candidates of the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance, Udhayanidhi Stalin claimed that the BJP was steadily increasing its political footprint in the Union Territory through indirect means.

He argued that the party was seeking to consolidate control over Puducherry in a manner similar to its political strategy in Tamil Nadu.

According to him, the BJP’s growing influence in Puducherry is being facilitated through its alliance with the All India N.R. Congress.

Drawing a parallel with Tamil Nadu, he alleged that the BJP was depending on the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, led by Edappadi K. Palaniswami, to expand its reach in the state.

Udhayanidhi Stalin further claimed that Puducherry, traditionally known for its social harmony, was now witnessing the rise of divisive political narratives. “This is a land where politics of hatred never had space. But today, we are seeing a systematic attempt to alter that fabric,” he said.

He also criticised key policies of the Union government, including the National Education Policy (NEP), alleging that it could reinforce social inequalities. Such measures, he warned, could have long-term consequences on the educational and social landscape of the region.

Highlighting Tamil Nadu’s governance model, Udhayanidhi Stalin said the state under Chief Minister M. K. Stalin had resisted attempts by the BJP to impose its ideological framework. He credited the “Dravidian model” for delivering inclusive development and maintaining social justice.

Taking aim at the Centre’s “double-engine government” pitch, he argued that the concept had failed to deliver tangible benefits in regions where it was implemented. In contrast, he claimed that Tamil Nadu had achieved consistent economic growth, citing figures of over 11 per cent. He also raised the issue of Puducherry’s demand for statehood, alleging that the Centre had repeatedly ignored resolutions passed by the Assembly.

Urging voters to back the alliance in the April 9 elections, Udhayanidhi called on the electorate to “protect the dignity and autonomy” of the Union Territory by rejecting the BJP’s governance model.

–IANS

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