New Delhi

Ahead of the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, Congress MP Manickam Tagore has criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s political approach in the state, arguing that the BJP’s blend of religion and politics does not resonate with Tamil Nadu’s socio-political ethos.

In an interaction with ANI, Tagore said that while Modi continues to attract large crowds in the state, this popularity has not translated into electoral success for the Bharatiya Janata Party.

He emphasised that Tamil Nadu’s political culture is distinct and does not favour the mixing of religion with politics. “What he speaks outside and what the BJP stands for is seen as against the basic ideology of Tamil Nadu’s politics,” Tagore said.

Citing an example, he referred to Modi’s recent visit to Madurai, where the Prime Minister visited the Tirupparankundram Temple. Tagore alleged that claims regarding restrictions on lighting a ceremonial lamp were inaccurate and that attempts to create a religious narrative had not been accepted by the public.

He added that Modi’s development-focused agenda finds more acceptance among voters. “If he talks about development… people listen. But when he mixes religion with politics, people get annoyed,” he said.

Drawing a comparison, Tagore said Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also enjoys significant popularity in the state, but converting that appeal into electoral gains depends on organisational strength.

He credited the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) for effectively leveraging Gandhi’s popularity within its alliance to achieve electoral success.

According to Tagore, despite efforts by the BJP to expand its organisational base, it faces what he described as an “anti-Modi, anti-BJP mood” among voters in Tamil Nadu.

Tamil Nadu is set to go to the polls in a single phase on April 23, with counting scheduled for May 4. The main contest is expected between the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA) and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), which includes the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, BJP, and Pattali Makkal Katchi.

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Actor-turned-politician Vijay is also set to make his electoral debut with his party, adding a new dimension to what could become a three-cornered contest in the state.