Political tensions have escalated in Tamil Nadu ahead of the assembly elections, with the DMK launching a sharp attack on the Centre and the BJP, accusing them of pursuing a fascist agenda and failing on women's safety and representation. Chief Minister M K Stalin also targeted AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami, alleging he is acting at the BJP's behest. The AIADMK hit back, accusing the DMK of poor law and order, drug trafficking links, and using money to influence women voters.