‘Education, health, honesty can transform TN’

Kamal commenced his three-day yatra from Gandhi memorial in Kanniyakumari and proceeded to various towns and villages in the district. From the Gandhi museum he went to the Kanniyakumari Railway station and then to Thenthamaraikulam, Manakudy, Rajakkamangalam, Colachel among other places.

En route, he delivered short two-minute addresses to people from atop his van. In his speeches, he said he came to learn more about the people of Kanniyakumari and their problems.

“It is an yatra to learn people’s needs and it is not to show power. It is not a political campaign and I am not seeking votes,” said Kamal. He said people in smaller towns have larger hearts and their love is clear. He further said education, health and honesty are the three factors that can transform Tamil Nadu into a better state and people it better.

“You hardworking people do not need any advice from politicians and I expect that these qualities should come into Tamil Nadu politics as well,” said Kamal.

He added that students of Tamil Nadu are skilled and they know how to clear obstacles.

At Colachel, Kamal interacted with fishermen and their children.

The fishermen spoke about their efforts to rebuild their community and livelihood after Cyclone Ockhi and the fundraising efforts to buy new boats.

Kamal promised to donate Rs 5 lakh to their cause.

The actor-turned-politician said he considered the opportunity to meet them an honour. He added that his wanting to know about the problems of the people is his duty as a Tamilian and as a politician.

The Makkal Needhi Maiam president would continue his trip through Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli and Virudhunagar districts, on Thursday and Friday.