Erode(East) bypoll 2025 | Anna was the first person to politically oppose Periyar, claims Seeman

Naam Tamilar Katchi chief coordinator Seeman campaigning for party candidate M.K. Seethalakshmi in Erode on Monday.
| Photo Credit: GOVARTHAN M

Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) chief coordinator Seeman on Monday claimed that former Chief Minister C.N. Annadurai was the first person to politically oppose Dravidar Kazhagam founder ‘Periyar’ E.V. Ramasamy.

Speaking at a public meeting before concluding his campaign in support of party candidate M.K. Seethalakshmi for the byelection to the Erode (East) Assembly constituency, Mr. Seeman said that Annadurai abandoned the ideology of “God does not exist” and instead proclaimed, “One race, one God.” When Congress members bribed voters, it was Annadurai who questioned, “Would anyone sell gold for bran?”. He added, “Today, those who run parties in his name are the ones buying votes.”

Mr. Seeman said that Annadurai provided governance free of disgrace, revenge, and oppression, and it was only after his political entry that Tamil literature and history were discussed on political platforms. “While they prioritise money, we prioritise our people. We are not here for power, we are here to serve you. We did not start a party to exploit people, but to work for them. Even if we face continuous defeats, we stand firm, trusting in you,” he said.

The leader further stated that oppressed caste people still do not receive caste certificates and asked, “Where have the Dravidian parties, who once spoke of social justice, disappeared?” He accused them of refusing to conduct a caste-based census to ensure fair representation. “If they conduct such a census, they will be exposed,” he claimed.

He concluded his campaign by asserting that this election is not just a contest between parties, but a battle of ideologies—between Dravidian principles and Tamil nationalist thoughts.