Udhayanidhi Stalin Addresses Deputy Chief Minister Speculations

On July 20, 2024, in Chennai, Tamil Nadu‘s Youth Welfare and Sports Development Minister, Udhayanidhi Stalin, took the stage to address the 45th annual foundation day of the DMK‘s youth wing. During his speech, Stalin sought to clarify the rumors surrounding his potential promotion to the role of Deputy Chief Minister of the state.

Udhayanidhi emphasized the importance of his current role as the secretary of the youth wing, stating, “This position means a lot to me personally.” He remarked that when asked by media professionals about the ongoing speculations, he assured them that all ministers in the Tamil Nadu cabinet effectively serve as deputies to the Chief Minister.

The event included a resolution from the attendees advocating for his elevation to Deputy Chief Minister, with several members expressing their eagerness to see him in this prestigious role. Addressing these sentiments, Udhayanidhi stated, “After reflecting on the hearsay and assumptions, you’ve come to propose this honorary position. Our Chief Minister and party leader holds the youth wing secretary post in high regard and it holds its own significance compared to other offices.”

Stalin reminisced about how the youth wing played a crucial role in the political journey of Chief Minister MK Stalin, indicating that despite other sections representing various community interests, the youth wing always retains a position of prominence.

The minister highlighted his unwavering commitment to the youth wing, indicating that even if he were to ascend to higher roles within the party, he would always cherish his duties as secretary. He underscored the necessity of continuing the hard work leading up to the crucial Assembly elections scheduled for 2026, emphasizing the need to emulate the success achieved in the Lok Sabha elections and the recent by-election in Vikravandi.

Moreover, Udhayanidhi underscored the incredible support the DMK receives from women voters, attributing this to the welfare initiatives championed by their leader. He urged members of the youth wing to actively engage with social media platforms as a means to counter misinformation propagated by the opposition, particularly the BJP.

In his address, he pointed out Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s multiple visits to Tamil Nadu, dismissing their significance in altering voter sentiment, stating, “I have been clear that even if the Prime Minister comes to Tamil Nadu a thousand times, it would not guarantee victory for his party.” Udhayanidhi concluded by rallying the youth wing to remain focused on their electoral goals, reinforcing the strength and unity of their alliance under the DMK banner.