As Tamil Nadu approaches a crucial election, Kanimozhi, a senior leader of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party, framed the contest as a battle between the state and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). In an exclusive interview with CNN-News18, she asserted that the election is not merely a DMK versus NDA fight, but a broader struggle for Tamil Nadu's rights and identity. Kanimozhi defended the DMK's governance record, highlighting the state's development and rising GDP, while emphasizing the party's welfare schemes as essential investments in social equity, particularly for women and students. She criticized the NDA for financial discrimination, claiming that funds owed to Tamil Nadu have been withheld due to the state's opposition to the three-language policy. Furthermore, she expressed skepticism regarding the electoral influence of actor Vijay and his newly formed party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), suggesting that while he may have a fan following, it may not translate into votes. Kanimozhi also rejected attempts to frame cultural issues as electoral narratives, reinforcing Tamil Nadu's tradition of secularism and communal harmony. She urged the focus to remain on development rather than divisive politics.