DMK Promises ₹8,000 ‘Illatharasi’ Coupons; TVK Chief Vijay to File Nomination for Tamil Nadu Polls

The DMK manifesto targets women voters with major doles as actor-turned-politician Vijay prepares to contest from Perambur and Trichy, marking a high-stakes shift in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape.

The battle lines for the upcoming Assembly elections have been firmly drawn as the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) unveiled its poll manifesto, headlined by a significant welfare promise for women. Simultaneously, Tamil Nadu politics is witnessing a seismic shift as Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief and actor Vijay is set to file his nomination today, even as the Election Commission of India (ECI) carries out a massive administrative overhaul in West Bengal.

DMK’s mega welfare push

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin released the DMK manifesto on Sunday, centering the party’s campaign on the ‘Illatharasi’ coupon scheme. Under this initiative, women heads of households who do not fall within the income tax bracket will receive a ₹8,000 coupon. These coupons are intended for the purchase or exchange of essential household appliances, including televisions, refrigerators, and washing machines.

Expanding existing social nets

The ruling party has also committed to doubling the monthly financial assistance for women under the ‘Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thittam’ from ₹1,000 to ₹2,000. Furthering its healthcare agenda, the DMK promised to hike the state’s health insurance limit to ₹10 lakh. Party leader Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi termed the manifesto a "superstar," noting that the breakfast scheme for students would now be extended up to Class 8.

Vijay enters the fray

In a move that has electrified the state’s youth, TVK chief Vijay released his party’s full list of candidates for all 234 seats. The actor is scheduled to file his nomination from the Perambur constituency in Chennai and Trichy (East) today. Terming this a “generational election,” Vijay’s platform includes a drug-free Tamil Nadu, student loans up to ₹20 lakh without guarantees, and unemployment allowances for graduates.

Bengal police reshuffle ordered

While the southern states gear up for polling, the Election Commission has taken stern action in West Bengal. The poll body ordered the immediate transfer of officers-in-charge at 173 police stations across the state. Notably, the Bhawanipur station, situated in Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s constituency, has been handed over to Soumitra Basu of the Special Task Force (STF) to ensure impartial polling.

Political war of words

The administrative changes have triggered a fresh row between the TMC and BJP. Leader Dilip Ghosh alleged that the state government is obstructing Central welfare schemes, claiming minorities and tribal communities remain neglected. Conversely, CM Mamata Banerjee dismissed these allegations, suggesting that the recent spate of violence in areas like Murshidabad was exacerbated by the ECI's sudden transfer of seasoned police officials.

Shifting dynamics in Kerala

The electoral fever has also gripped Kerala, where Rahul Gandhi is scheduled to address public rallies today. However, reports suggest a growing sense of disillusionment among young voters. In districts like Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram, first-time voters have expressed hesitation, with some contemplating the NOTA option, citing a perceived lack of distinction between the major political fronts.

Impact and future outlook

The DMK’s focus on direct benefit transfers via coupons is seen as a strategic move to counter anti-incumbency, though the AIADMK has already labeled it a "commission-driven" scheme. As Vijay begins his campaign today, the three-way contest in Tamil Nadu—coupled with the administrative tightening in Bengal—indicates that the April elections will be a definitive test of regional leadership and federal oversight.