Palaniswami Welcomes Centre’s Move Exempting Sri Lankan Tamils, AIADMK Lauds Decision
Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS), AIADMK general secretary and Leader of Opposition in Tamil Nadu, has publicly welcomed the Union government’s decision to exempt Sri Lankan Tamils who entered India before January 9, 2015 from penal provisions under the Immigration and Foreigners Act. In a gazette notification dated September 2, 2025, the Ministry of Home Affairs declared that registered Sri Lankan Tamils who arrived before the above date will not be prosecuted for lacking valid passports, visas or other travel documents Palaniswami said this step responds to a long‑standing demand by AIADMK and civil society groups in Tamil Nadu, and he described it as a humane and just recognition of the plight of those seeking refuge.He emphasised that while the exemption removes the threat of penal action, it does not immediately grant citizenship, permanent residency, or other legal rights. Nevertheless, EPS termed it “the first step toward granting legal recognition to Sri Lankan Tamils.” Among Tamil Nadu political circles, the move is seen as a welcome measure that aligns with the Tamil identity sentiment pervasive in the state.
From a political angle, this decision gives AIADMK a narrative advantage. Tamil Nadu voters often view Sri Lankan Tamil issues—refuge, identity, integration—with emotional resonance. EPS’ early endorsement allows AIADMK to claim moral ground and to position itself as a protector of Tamil interests vis‑à‑vis the Union and state governments.
AIADMK: latest news, positioning & achievements
Latest AIADMK news / political developments
- AIADMK has launched a campaign dubbed “Oruttugalum, Thiruttugalum (Lies & Deceit)” to spotlight what it says are unfulfilled promises by the DMK government. The party uses gimmicks like spin‑the‑wheel and scratch cards to engage public attention.
- Party leaders have accused ruling DMK of pursuing political vendetta, especially when the DVAC raided a property linked to an AIADMK MLA. EPS condemned the raids as being politically motivated.
- Ahead of 2026 Tamil Nadu assembly elections, AIADMK is aligning strategically. On April 11, 2025, EPS and BJP’s Amit Shah announced an alliance for the elections.
Top AIADMK achievements in Tamil Nadu (as claimed / historically upheld)
While in government, AIADMK often cites the following as its key achievements in Tamil Nadu:
- Infrastructure development – road expansion, bridging rural gaps, and improving connectivity in small towns and villages.
- Welfare schemes – subsidies in food, support for the poor, women’s programmes, educational aids, and social safety nets.
- Industrial growth & investment – efforts to attract industrial projects across the state, encouraging growth beyond Chennai metropolitan area.
- Social welfare & inclusiveness – policies aimed at marginalized communities, agricultural support, rural upliftment.
- Legacy initiatives – continuation of schemes popularized by earlier AIADMK governments, like subsidised goods, health, and education support.
That said, critics point out that AIADMK’s record on fulfilling promises is mixed: the DMK government claims AIADMK fulfilled only about 50 % of its electoral promises, and released funds for only 27 % of announced projects under Rule 110 in the Assembly.
The Union government’s decision to exempt Sri Lankan Tamils from penal provisions is a significant and empathetic step that addresses a deep emotional and legal concern in Tamil Nadu. Palaniswami’s swift and strong endorsement allows AIADMK to stake its claim as a defender of Tamil interests. While the exemption is not a silver bullet, it opens space for further advocacy—such as pathways to legal residency, citizenship, or better social recognition.
If AIADMK can convert symbolic wins like this into sustained policy momentum, ground-level work, and credible alternatives to the ruling DMK, it may regain political charge ahead of the 2026 polls. The challenge now is turning recognition into real rights — and making that the centerpiece of AIADMK’s political resurgence.
