BJP, which managed to stitch up a six-party ‘rainbow' alliance, roping in cine star-turned-politician Vijayakant's DMDK, Vanniyar community backed PMK among others, expects the combine to pose a hurdle for AIADMK and DMK in some constituencies, having presented a third alternative.
The saffron party, riding on the ‘Modi' wave and the support base enjoyed by its allies has been dreaming of sending MPs to the Lok Sabha after a long time from Tamil Nadu, where its run remained on a barren stretch so far after the AIADMK and DMK kept away from it.
Notwithstanding the outcome, BJP by forming an alliance has scored a point over its national rival Congress, which has been left to fend for itself, being isolated by all parties in the state.
‘Puratchi Thalaivi Amma” (revolutionary mother), as Jayalalithaa is affectionately addressed by her followers, seemed to be largely banking on her government's pro-poor schemes like subsidised canteens, packaged drinking water bottles sold at cheaper rates and distribution of freebies like mixer grinders and milch animals started three years ago.
However, DMK has been raising issues like acute drinking water shortage, sale of bottled water and power shortage to attack AIADMK.
