Sitharaman Alleges Tamil Nadu Forces Blocked Moopanar’s PM Bid

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman alleged on Saturday that certain forces in Tamil Nadu prevented the late G K Moopanar, founder of the Tamil Manila Congress, from becoming India’s Prime Minister. Speaking at a memorial event marking Moopanar’s 24th death anniversary in Chennai, Sitharaman paid tribute to the revered leader while highlighting what she described as a historic betrayal that derailed his political ascent.

Sitharaman, addressing a gathering at Moopanar’s memorial in Teynampet, claimed that these forces, often vocal about championing Tamil identity, culture, and language, actively worked to block Moopanar’s path to the Prime Minister’s office when the opportunity arose. Without naming specific individuals or groups, she emphasized that this incident remains one of the “greatest betrayals” in Tamil Nadu’s political history. “We all know which forces prevented him from becoming Prime Minister,” she stated, urging the audience to reflect on the implications of such actions.

Reflecting on Moopanar’s legacy, Sitharaman described him as a towering figure whose simplicity, honesty, and nationalism earned him respect across India. “During my college days, when my interest in politics was just budding, I saw Moopanar as a widely respected leader from Tamil Nadu,” she recalled. “From Bihar to Haryana, and in every corner of the country, his name commanded admiration.” She highlighted his ability to unite people, noting that his words carried weight and inspired collective action.

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The event saw the presence of prominent political figures, including AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami, DMDK Treasurer Sudheesh, and BJP leaders Nainar Nagenthiran and K Annamalai, who joined Sitharaman in paying floral tributes. The Finance Minister clarified that her remarks were not intended to be political, as the occasion was meant to honor Moopanar’s contributions. However, she underscored the need for a transformation in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.

Sitharaman called for unity among alliance partners to deliver good governance, emphasizing that the people of Tamil Nadu are yearning for accountable leadership. She indirectly criticized a “family” in the state, accusing them of profiting from illicit activities like drug and alcohol trade, though she refrained from naming them. “We are duty-bound to work together and deliver the governance people seek,” she said, acknowledging minor differences among allies but expressing confidence in their shared vision. “Seasoned leaders on this dais will stand united to achieve this goal,” she added.

Moopanar, a veteran Congress leader before founding the Tamil Manila Congress in 1996, was a key figure in Tamil Nadu politics known for his integrity and cross-party appeal. Political analysts note that his potential candidacy for Prime Minister in the 1990s, particularly during coalition negotiations, was thwarted due to complex regional and national political dynamics. Sitharaman’s remarks have reignited discussions about this pivotal moment in Tamil Nadu’s history.

Concluding her speech, Sitharaman urged political leaders to work together in Moopanar’s memory. “Delivering good governance and unity will be the greatest tribute to his legacy,” she said.

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