CHENNAI: Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs L Murugan on Saturday hit a conflicting note, asserting that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) would commit only to realistic and implementable election assurances, drawing a pointed contrast with what he described as the DMK's record of deceptive manifestos, meanwhile welcoming the AIADMK's announcement of five poll assurances, following on the State ruling party's welfare footsteps.

Murugan's remarks came amid political debate over a proposed monthly cash assistance of Rs 2,000 for women heads of families, announced as part of the AIADMK's initial set of poll promises ahead of the Assembly elections.

Addressing reporters after a review meeting with BJP functionaries at Kamalalayam, TN BJP headquarters here, Murugan said the NDA's approach to welfare would be grounded in fiscal prudence and administrative feasibility. "We will give only those promises that can be fulfilled. Unlike the DMK, we do not believe in misleading people with impractical assurances," he said.

Referring to the Prime Minister's scheduled visit to Tamil Nadu on January 23, Murugan said Narendra Modi would address a massive public meeting organised by the NDA. "The Prime Minister's visit will mark a decisive moment. It will reinforce the public's confidence that an NDA government in Tamil Nadu is inevitable," he said, adding that preparations for the event were underway.

On rural employment, he said the Centre had already legislated to enhance the VB-G RAM man-days from 100 to 125. "In that context, we welcome the AIADMK's proposal to increase it to 150 days. Welfare measures must be discussed responsibly," he said, referring to Edappadi Palaniswami's one of the poll promises.

Taking aim at the ruling DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA), Murugan said the Congress, a constituent of the DMK-led front, continued to speak of power-sharing without clarity. On questions about leadership and alliance decisions within the NDA, he said such matters would be decided by the party's high command.

When asked whether new allies would be formally announced at the January 23 public meeting, Murugan said, "All answers will come from the stage on that day. This press meet is only about the Prime Minister's visit."

He declined to comment on the participation of specific leaders, reiterating that the focus remained on the NDA's agenda and the Prime Minister's programme.