The BJP is all set to sound the bugle for elections. But will this also signal the revival of the NDA in Tamil Nadu?
The Prime Minister's visit comes at a time when there is hectic discussion on the NDA's revival in the state. Times of India reported that the BJP is willing to give 113 seats to the DMDK and 70 seats to the PMK, while retaining around 50 seats for itself. The PMK has already shot down the proposal with Anbumani Ramadoss reiterating that he would lead his alliance and be the CM candidate.
"We have asked our leader to decide on the alliance. He has said he will declare by February 20. But, this being assembly elections, it may not make much sense in teaming up with the BJP if they cannot rope in better allies," a senior leader from he DMDK said.
Though the buzz is evident, the BJP is trying to play down the visit.
Talking to The News Minute, KT Raghavan, BJP State Secretary and spokesperson said, "He is just addressing a public meeting in Coimbatore. He will definitely speak about the Tamil Nadu politics as the elections are round the corner."
Asked about the NDA alliances, he said, "Discussions are going on with PMK and DMDK. We have not got any confirmations till now."
He added that Prime Minister's visit has nothing to do with the NDA alliance.
Security arrangements in Coimbatore
The strong contingent has been drawn from nearby districts and also Chennai, as nearly 450 personnel will be on position in the vicinity of the Airport. Modi is arriving around 2.30 PM, police said.
The Prime Minister will straight away drive from Airport to ESI, some six kilometres away, where about 1,000-strong SPG and Quick Reaction Force will be deployed en route as part of the five-tier security, they said.
The Government Guest House--Circuit House-- has also been brought under tight security, in case Modi needed a break, they said.
Stating that a large number of personnel from intelligence wings are spread across the city since Thursday evening, after getting confirmation about the visit, police said that over 500 police personnel will be manning the traffic, which need diversion to facilitate the smooth movement of VVIP.