Chennai: MDMK released its manifesto for the upcoming assembly elections, promising that the party would fight for the state autonomy, minorities welfare and right over Cauvery water.MDMK general secretary Vaiko released the manifesto at the party headquarters in Chennai on Tuesday, becoming the first political party in the state to release the document for the upcoming assembly election.MDMK manifesto alleged that BJP has unleashed violence on minorities and that MDMK will protect them in TN. ” We will any force that threatens personal liberties, economic freedom, or freedom of religious worship of minorities. We will oppose implementation of the Uniform Civil Code,” the manifesto said.MDMK said it would not allow BJP’s plans of changing the history of Tamils by preventing the publication of Keeladi report happen.MDMK vowed to fight for NEET exemption for Tamil Nadu. “NEET infringes upon the reservation rights and medical aspirations of the oppressed, the backward classes, and the underprivileged students within society,” the manifesto stated. MDMK also condemned BJP for not releasing SSA funds for TN. MDMK warned of severe protest against Karnataka govt if they proceed with the Mekedatu dam. “16.2 lakh acres of farmlands in 10 Cauvery delta districts and 19 districts including Chennai will face severe water shortage if Mekedatu reservoir is constructed. We will undertake severe protest to stop the Mekedatu dam,” the manifesto said.The manifesto also vowed to protect state autonomy. “Only through state autonomy, the states can devise their own developmental schemes. MDMK will strive to protect Dravidian policy of autonomy in the state and federalism at the centre,” the manifesto read.
