Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Tamil Nadu for a series of project inaugurations on January 2 is anticipated to signify the initiation of the BJP’s campaign for the Lok Sabha elections in the state.
This visit is significant as it marks Modi’s first to Tamil Nadu since the AIADMK’s departure, raising questions about the BJP’s alliance strategy. The BJP leaders have not clarified whether they will attempt to reconcile with the AIADMK or form a separate front. Modi’s visit is expected to shed light on the BJP’s course of action in Tamil Nadu ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.
Scheduled to share the stage with Chief Minister M K Stalin at the convocation of Bharathidasan University in Trichy, Modi will address a government function, inaugurating and dedicating multiple projects worth 19,850 crores. These projects span aviation, rail, road, oil and gas, shipping, and higher education sectors.
While BJP functionaries suggest Modi might refrain from overt political statements during a government event, they anticipate hints at the BJP’s future plans. Although a visit to DMDK leader Vijayakant’s memorial is not confirmed, it remains a possibility, providing insights into the BJP’s stance after the AIADMK’s exit.
“This visit, post the AIADMK’s separation, is crucial in determining the direction of our party,” stated a functionary.
According to the released agenda, Modi will participate in the Bharathidasan University convocation and the inauguration of projects such as the new terminal building at Trichy. The PM will dedicate railway projects to the nation, inaugurate road sector projects in southern TN, and lay the foundation stone for a four-lane road from Mugaiyur to Marakkanam on the ECR. Additionally, he will inaugurate the General Cargo Berth-II of Kamarajar Port.
The PM is also set to inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for petroleum and natural gas projects, including IOCL’s 488km natural gas pipeline from Chengalpet to Sayalkudi and HPCL’s 697km Vijayawada-Dharmapuri Multiproduct Petroleum Pipeline.
The visit is poised to be a significant moment for the BJP in Tamil Nadu, setting the tone for their political strategy in the state.
