MK Stalin Accuses BJP of Political Posturing Over Katchatheevu Issue, PM Modi Hits Back

GG News Bureau
Chennai, 3rd April. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK President MK Stalin has launched scathing criticism against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for raising the Katchatheevu issue ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, suggesting that it has begun to backfire. Stalin’s comments come in response to recent statements by Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the disputed island.

In a sharp rebuke aimed at PM Modi, Stalin questioned why the Prime Minister had never engaged with the Sri Lankan government to reclaim Katchatheevu Island. He highlighted PM Modi’s alleged silence on the matter, contrasting it with his fervent campaigning in the region.

Stalin further accused PM Modi of selective memory, asserting that the issue of Katchatheevu was brought up during his visit to Chennai in May 2022, yet the Prime Minister allegedly failed to address it. He criticized PM Modi for purportedly neglecting incidents such as the shooting and arrest of Tamil fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy over the past decade.

The Tamil Nadu Chief Minister also took aim at PM Modi’s handling of foreign affairs, particularly in relation to China’s territorial claims in Arunachal Pradesh. Stalin accused PM Modi of lacking the courage to confront China while simultaneously asserting authority over matters concerning Katchatheevu.

In response, PM Modi countered by accusing the Congress party of mishandling the Katchatheevu issue during its tenure, alleging that it led to the island’s transfer to Sri Lanka. He criticized the Congress for fielding a candidate who advocated for the division of the country, and accused the party of neglecting border villages and military personnel.

PM Modi also targeted the DMK, accusing the party of failing to protect Tamil Nadu’s interests regarding Katchatheevu. He cited reports suggesting that former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi had consented to the agreement despite public opposition by the DMK.

The exchange between the BJP and DMK underscores the contentious nature of the Katchatheevu issue, which continues to be a focal point in Tamil Nadu politics. With the Lok Sabha elections looming, both parties are vying for voter support in the state, which holds significant electoral sway with its 39 parliamentary seats.

As the electoral battle intensifies, the Katchatheevu dispute remains a key issue, reflecting the broader political dynamics at play in Tamil Nadu. With the state heading to the polls on April 19, the outcome will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of national politics.