CHENNAI: DMDK general secretary Premalatha Vijayakant on Thursday said Chennai had been virtually paralysed over the past few days due to sustained protests by nurses, secondary grade teachers and cleanliness workers, holding the ruling DMK government responsible for failing to fulfil its 2021 Assembly election promises.

Speaking to reporters at the DMDK headquarters in Koyambedu, Premalatha said the anger among protesters was 'both natural and justified' as the present government was nearing the end of its five-year term without honouring several key assurances. "When employees are forced to take to the streets even after five years, it clearly reflects the failure of governance," she said, urging the State government to address their long-pending demands immediately.

Highlighting the law and order situation, she expressed concern over rising drug abuse among youth across districts, alleging an increase in violent incidents linked to ganja consumption. She called upon Chief Minister MK Stalin to take decisive steps to curb narcotics, shut down illicit liquor networks and ensure a safer future for students and young people.

She announced that the party would formally declare its alliance on January 9 at the 'Makkal Urimai Meetpu Maanadu 2.0' scheduled to be held in Cuddalore. "That conference will mark the fulfilment of Captain Vijayakanth's dream and political legacy," she said.

Responding to questions on Union Home Minister Amit Shah's proposed visit to Tamil Nadu, Premalatha clarified that no formal invitation or alliance talks had taken place with the BJP so far. "After consulting our district secretaries and party functionaries, a clear decision on the alliance will be announced on January 9," she reiterated.

Earlier in the day, Premalatha paid floral tributes at the memorial of late DMDK founder Vijayakant and distributed sweets and food to the public to mark the New Year.