Four years of DMK regime: What are Stalin's hits and misses?
Can Stalin maintain unity in his alliance and in his party while fighting BJP and facing the rise of Vijay? Senior journalist R Rangaraj dives in
As Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin completes four years in office, his leadership comes under the scanner for both achievements and challenges. Senior journalist Rangaraj, in an exclusive interview with The Federal, rated Stalin’s performance as chief minister at 6 out of 10 — crediting his governance, but flagging party management as a major challenge.
From economic hurdles to national visibility and a rising political rival in actor Vijay, Stalin's political terrain is getting more complex as the state prepares for the 2026 elections.
Charisma vs consistency
“Stalin doesn’t have the charisma of MGR or the glamour of Jayalalithaa,” said Rangaraj. “But like his father Karunanidhi, he emphasizes hard work over oratory.”
Despite a less dramatic presence, Stalin has leaned into policy continuity and development. He has overseen welfare schemes and fought for state rights on platforms such as delimitation and NEET — gaining national attention along the way.
“Stalin has acquired national status by bringing parties together and putting the BJP on the mat,” Rangaraj observed.
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Fiscal tightrope
One of the major challenges Stalin faces is Tamil Nadu’s debt burden. The state’s borrowings have jumped from Rs 4 lakh crore to Rs 9.5 lakh crore in just four years. Still, the government defends the debt-to-GSDP ratio as remaining under the Centre’s 27 per cent ceiling.
Tamil Nadu’s heavy reliance on state-run liquor sales, generating Rs 30,000 crore annually, is symptomatic of its limited fiscal options under GST. “Welfare schemes are fine,” said Rangaraj, “but the real question is: how do you raise the money?”
“All governments are borrowing more than ever before,” he noted. “But Tamil Nadu's growth rate of 9.69 per cent is higher than the national average.”
Political positioning
While Stalin may not have national aspirations, his assertive stance on federalism has elevated his image. From challenging governor overreach to hosting an all-party meeting on delimitation, Stalin has shaped a federalist narrative.
This positioning has put the BJP on the defensive, transforming the traditional DMK vs AIADMK battleground into a DMK vs BJP narrative. Rangaraj warns this could marginalize the AIADMK and sharpen polarisation in Tamil Nadu politics.
“DMK is trying to position itself as a protector of Tamil rights and culture against central imposition,” Rangaraj explained.
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Challenges within and beyond
Stalin may find governance more manageable than party politics. Internally, he faces factional issues, generational tensions, and pressure from aspirational younger cadres. “Running a party is far more difficult,” Rangaraj noted.
On the outside, TVK leader Vijay poses a fresh threat. “He has a massive youth following. DMK must counter him without alienating his fanbase,” he said, referring to Tamil Nadu’s unique culture of hero worship.
On NEET and welfare promises
The NEET exam issue continues to dog the DMK. Despite promises to scrap it, the state government has limited control over the centrally mandated test. Legal interventions may be the only route left.
Rangaraj also pointed to dissatisfaction over welfare schemes. For instance, the Rs 1,000 monthly scheme for women was initially announced for all but later limited through conditions. This backtracking has sparked discontent.
“They must avoid making outlandish promises which may not be easy to implement,” he advised.
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Stalin in rapid fire
In a quick round, Rangaraj offered these ratings:
CM performance: 6/10
DMK leadership: 5/10
INDIA bloc influence: 8/10
As Udhayanidhi’s father: 8/10
Outreach to women voters: 7/10
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