Narendra Modi's Tamil Praise and Its Impact on Tamil Nadu's Perception

Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the Tamil language on Twitter while wearing a dhoti in Chennai, a move that may signal upcoming frequent visits to Tamil Nadu. However, does this gesture have the potential to change the Tamil Nadu (TN) populace's perception towards the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)? Let's explore this.

Changing Perception but at a Slow Pace

While Modi's efforts to connect with the Tamil Nadu electorate by speaking in Tamil are appreciated, the overall perception is changing at a snail's pace. For decades, TN voters have been fed a narrative by so-called Periyarist parties, which have reinforced a strong sense of "Dravidian Tamil maya." Reshaping this perception will require significant and long-lasting efforts.

Critical Evaluation of Modi's Gestures

It is crucial to assess the effectiveness of such gestures. Prime Minister Trudeau of Canada, for instance, addresses Tamil people in a comprehensible Tamil language, which is a commendable step. However, when Modi ji addresses TN electorates in Tamil, it is often met with criticism and skepticism. Statements like "Iniyaaaaa Thaaai Bengal Naalvathukal" can be perceived as not genuine and as making fun of Tamil people.

Moreover, some view these efforts as a cosmetic move by Modi to appease Tamil sentiment. This can be patronizing and futile. Addressingmacro and micro issues such as farm distress, unemployment, inflation, and the challenge of obtaining essential documents like Aadhaar are far more critical. People's fundamental needs and rights should take precedence over rhetoric.

Addressing Local Issues Matters

Modi's government has made Aadhaar a prerequisite for accessing government benefits and conducting transactions. However, implementing this policy has proven challenging. Many citizens find it almost impossible to obtain or update their Aadhaar due to bureaucratic inefficiencies. Faulty biometric machines, data mismatches, and the inability to reach an approving authority highlight the government's issues in delivering these services.

The Tamil Nadu electorate is a thinking populace that values results and outcomes. This is evident from the continued respect and praise for figures like Jayalalithaa, who provided exemplary governance. Therefore, to change the TN electorate's perception, the Modi regime must address these local issues promptly and decisively. Simply painting an idealistic picture of high growth and controlled inflation is not enough; real and tangible actions must be the focus.

Conclusion

While Narendra Modi's efforts to connect with Tamil Nadu through language and attire are well-intentioned, they do not address the underlying issues that affect the TN electorate. A long-term and sustained effort to address local grievances and provide meaningful reforms is essential for the BJP to gain the trust and support of the TN populace.

In summary, for the BJP to see a positive change in Tamil Nadu, it must move beyond symbolic gestures and take direct action to solve the day-to-day problems that matter most to the people.