I am not here to rule for another 40 years: Kamal Haasan

MADURAI: In his first political public speech, the actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan asserted that he did not want to rule for another 40 years and his party ‘Makkal Needhi Maiam’ would stand strong for another four generations

In his sparkling speech, Kamal Haasan said that they (his fans) had been silent for the past 37 years and were serving the welfare of the needy. “They are rising now as they could not tolerate the injustice being done to the people by the past and present governments,” the actor said.

“The present rulers have forgotten about their duty towards the people and are troubling him. The past is past, but it will not be forgotten,” Kamal stated.

Stating that his works will be focused on the future generations of the State, Kamal said, “I’m 63 right now. I am not here to rule for another 40 years and the party ‘Makkal Needhi Maiam’ will stand strong for another four generations. I am here only to sow the seeds.” He also assured the crowd that he was dedicating the rest of his life for the people.

Explaining his policies, Kamal said that irrespective of the parties, he would take the welfare policies implemented by the chief ministers of other States.

He also stated that he would mainly concentrate on imparting quality education to all the children of the State. “Now, the schools are being made private buildings and even the schoolchildren have access to buying liquor,” he pointed out.

WATCH VIDEO | Actor Kamal Haasan launches his political party ‘Makkal Needhi Maiam’

Talking on the caste-based discrimination and politics, the actor affirmed that the gimmicks played in the name of caste in the past decades would be stopped.

Hinting at the freebies given by the previous government, Kamal said that he would not let people to extend their hands for free schemes. Instead, he said, he would make the common man as a philanthropist by giving them good education and employment.

Kamal also said that he was against vote-for-cash and would not encourage people to go for it.
Stating that many politicians are teasing his decision of adopting eight villages, the actor said that he would surely make those eight villages as role model hamlets. “Even if politicians are not satisfied with the work, I am ready to accept their suggestions,” he said.  

Taking on the Cauvery river issue and water sharing problem with other States, Kamal Haasan criticised the action taken by the present and past governments, saying “we can get anything, including water through proper and genuine dialogues with the States concerned. I can get even blood (from them), as donation (for medical need).”

Kamal Hassan also urged the people not to see him as a star anymore as he wanted to be seen as a lamp. “People should never let the lamp go off due to the wind called corruption,” he said. He also added that his party was registered with the Election Commission.