Federalism in India Will Only Flourish After the End of BJP Rule, Says M K Stalin

Chief Minister M K Stalin has accused the BJP-led central government of undermining federalism and state autonomy in India. Speaking at a seminar on federalism during the CPI-M's 24th party Congress, Stalin claimed that the BJP is against state autonomy, social justice, and communal harmony. He urged democratic forces to unite against what he described as an anti-people regime.

Stalin criticised the passage of the Waqf bill, which he said negatively impacts Muslims and violates constitutional principles. He announced plans to challenge this legislation in the Supreme Court. He also accused the Centre of infringing on states' rights through various laws, including those related to finances via GST, and criticised governors in opposition-ruled states for acting like politicians.

Federalism and State Autonomy

The chief minister alleged that the BJP wants to eliminate states altogether. He claimed that opposition-ruled governments face threats, are toppled, and parties are split. Stalin argued that proposed delimitation efforts threaten federalism, with states like Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka opposing these moves.

Stalin described the BJP government as fascist for usurping constitutional rights. He expressed disappointment over Prime Minister Narendra Modi's lack of response to resolutions seeking a 25-year freeze on delimitation starting next year. Stalin emphasised the need for regime change at the Centre to restore federalism.

Dravidian and Communist Ideologies

Stalin highlighted his participation in the event as a symbol of ideological friendship between Dravidian and Communist movements. He noted that this relationship dates back to reformist leader Periyar EV Ramasamy and DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi, who identified as a communist. The Dravidian ideology includes elements of communism.

Before attending the meeting in Madurai, Stalin announced plans to install a statue of Karl Marx in Chennai. He mentioned that his name was inspired by Soviet leader Joseph Stalin, reflecting his father's admiration for communist ideals.

Electoral Alliances and Ideological Commitment

The electoral alliance between DMK and Left parties is based on shared ideology, aiming for an egalitarian society. Stalin acknowledged that achieving change is a long process but reaffirmed their commitment since 2019. He dismissed speculation about cracks in the DMK-led alliance, asserting that no opportunity would be given for such divisions.

Praising Left leader Sitharam Yechury for his dedication to ideology, Stalin noted that federalism has become a sensitive topic for central rulers who oppose state rights. He claimed that he and Kerala's Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan are most affected by the BJP's autocratic tendencies.

Constitutional Concerns

Stalin reiterated that India's Constitution begins by declaring it a union of states, which is why he refers to it as the union government. He argued that this terminology should not provoke anger unless there is opposition to decentralisation of powers. The DMK has long campaigned for state autonomy and federalism.

Stalin accused Prime Minister Modi's administration of contradicting its initial stance on decentralisation by harming states' interests and disregarding regional languages and cultures. He urged continuous campaigns against what he termed a unitary, fascist regime where constitutional bodies become ineffective.

Stalin questioned Modi's commitment to implementing recommendations from Sarkaria and Punchhi panels aimed at strengthening Centre-state relations. He called on Modi to address these concerns during his visit to Tamil Nadu on April 6.