Chennai

AIADMK chief Edappadi K Palaniswami on Thursday clarified that his recent remarks questioning Chief Minister M K Stalin’s absence during the COVID-19 pandemic were not meant as a personal attack.

Speaking at an election rally in support of party candidate Aadhi Rajaram in the Chepauk-Thiruvallikeni constituency, Palaniswami said he had merely raised a question about the chief minister’s visibility during the crisis and did not make any inappropriate or offensive comments.

He accused Stalin and his son Udhayanidhi Stalin of making derogatory remarks against him, warning that he would respond strongly if targeted. Emphasising his long political career, Palaniswami said he has avoided personal criticism but would not remain silent if attacked.

Clarifying his earlier statement, he said he had only pointed out that Stalin was not visibly active during the pandemic and denied suggesting anything beyond that.

Responding to the criticism, Stalin said the DMK government assumed office in May 2021 during the peak of the second wave, while the initial outbreak occurred under the AIADMK regime. He also accused Palaniswami of making irresponsible remarks due to political pressure ahead of the elections.

At a separate rally, Stalin defended his record, highlighting his past political struggles and asserting that he is not someone who fears challenges, including the pandemic.

Palaniswami, in turn, defended his government’s handling of the crisis, stating that despite risks, he had travelled extensively across districts, held consultations with officials and stakeholders, and prioritised public welfare without seeking publicity.

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The exchange comes amid an intense political contest in Tamil Nadu, with leaders from both sides sharpening their rhetoric ahead of the Assembly elections.