COIMBATORE: Former Tamil Nadu BJP president K Annamalai on Sunday refrained from attacking any political party at the first state conference of his newly launched ‘We the Leaders’ (WTL) forum in Pollachi.On the contrary, he gave a call for ‘healthy politics’ and struck a conciliatory tone towards TVK. Annamalai said TVK MLAs were first-time legislators with little administrative experience and should be supported and guided rather than being written off. Nevertheless, he said WTL would bring a political change in 2031.Speaking at the state conference, held on a 25-acre ground at Achipatti on Pollachi-Coimbatore Road on the theme of ‘Drug free Tamil Nadu,’ Annamalai said the event was not meant to attack any party or leader.“This is not a political conference to criticise another party or another leader. We have not started this movement with arrogance or merely to capture power. We have come to build a better society,” he said.Annamalai said the new administration should be given time to settle down. “Some people ask me to attack them. Most of the MLAs in TVK are not with 10 year or 20-year experience. They may stumble, but when they stumble, we should help them stand up,” he said. Annamalai also reiterated his support for TVK govt’s move to remove the registration ban on 3,000 odd acres temple lands in Karur for which pattas were issued.On the state’s finances, Annamalai said TVK govt would borrow not less than 85,000 crore this year and 80,000 crore next year.“By the time this govt completes its term, TN’s debt will be around 14 lakh crore to 15 lakh crore,” he said.Annamalai said WTL and supporters would not get trapped under politics of caste, religion or state identity vs national identity.“I am a Hindu, but when I step out, I lock up my caste and religion inside my house. There is no need to highlight and display religion every time,” he said.He said July would be observed as an anti-drug awareness month every year by WTL, while Aug will be for environment.“We aim to plant 50 lakh saplings across TN and clean more than 2,000 lakes and ponds. Sept will be dedicated to women’s safety, followed by children’s welfare,” he said.Expressing concern over education and health indicators, Annamalai said WTL would work towards world-class govt schools and primary health centres. He also announced the launch of a trade union wing of WTL.
