As Tamil Nadu prepares for its assembly elections, the issue of women's safety has taken center stage, particularly due to a rise in violence against women and children. The ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party, led by Chief Minister M K Stalin, is under scrutiny for allegedly being soft on crime, with the Opposition coalition of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) claiming that the state has become 'lawless'. Recent incidents, such as the rape of a student at Anna University in 2024 and a violent attack on a girl in Minjur, have heightened concerns among citizens. Many residents, like Devi from Vikramasingapuram, express anxiety about sending their daughters to school amidst these reports of sexual assault. In response, the DMK has announced plans to double the monthly financial aid for women under the Kalaignar Women's Rights Scheme to ₹2,000 (approximately $24 USD) and distribute ₹8,000 (about $96 USD) worth of coupons for household goods. However, the party's efforts have faced backlash, including a tragic incident where a woman reportedly took her own life after being assaulted by DMK supporters. This has complicated the party's campaign as it seeks to regain trust from voters concerned about safety and governance.