M. K. Stalin

Stalin was born in Chennai on 1 March 1953 as the third son of M. Karunanidhi, the former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, and Dayalu Ammal. Karunanidhi was addressing a condolence meeting for Soviet leader Joseph Stalin, who had died only four days after his child was born, and thus decided to name his son after Stalin.{{cite news|url=https://www.livemint.com/Politics/w8AdQ0Gwsh12WyUjORR14J/Will-DMKs-Stalin-gain-from-the-political-feud-in-Tamil-Nadu.html|title=Will DMK's Stalin gain from the political feud in Tamil Nadu?|last=Thangavelu|first=Dharani|date=1 March 2017|work=Mint|access-date=20 April 2018|archive-date=20 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180420135905/https://www.livemint.com/Politics/w8AdQ0Gwsh12WyUjORR14J/Will-DMKs-Stalin-gain-from-the-political-feud-in-Tamil-Nadu.html|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.theweek.in/news/india/2018/08/28/m-k-stalin-timeline-slow-steady-dmk-president.html|title=M.K. Stalin timeline: Slow, steady rise of DMK's new president|website=The Week|language=en|access-date=11 August 2019|archive-date=26 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230326025225/https://www.theweek.in/news/india/2018/08/28/m-k-stalin-timeline-slow-steady-dmk-president.html|url-status=live}}

Stalin studied at the Madras Christian College Higher Secondary School, Chennai.{{cite web|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/6709112.cms|title=Star-studded 175th b'day for MCC school|date=7 October 2010|work=The Times of India|access-date=7 October 2018|archive-date=21 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230921150755/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/star-studded-175th-bday-for-mcc-school/articleshow/6709112.cms|url-status=live}} He then completed a pre-university course at Vivekananda College and obtained a degree in history from Presidency College, Chennai, in 1973. He was conferred an honorary doctorate by Anna University on 1 August 2009.{{Cite web|url=http://www.bharatstudent.com/cafebharat/event_photos_3-Hindi-Events-M_K_Stalin_A_R_Rahman_Mylswamy_Annadurai-Photo-Galleries-1,8,4359,1.php|title=M K Stalin, A. R. Rahman & Mylswamy Annadurai{{!}}A.R.RAHMAN Awarded Doctorate by Anna University Photo Gallery, A.R.RAHMAN Awarded Doctorate by Anna University Stills, A.R.RAHMAN Awarded Doctorate by Anna University Gallery, A.R.RAHMAN Awarded Doctorate by Anna University Photos|website=Bharatstudent|language=en|access-date=11 August 2019|archive-date=11 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190811200511/http://www.bharatstudent.com/cafebharat/event_photos_3-Hindi-Events-M_K_Stalin_A_R_Rahman_Mylswamy_Annadurai-Photo-Galleries-1,8,4359,1.php|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/rahman-stalin-get-honorary-doctorates/story-E3U4gzMBfuiwIPJzn85RyN.html|title=Rahman, Stalin get honorary doctorates|date=1 August 2009|website=Hindustan Times|language=en|access-date=11 August 2019|archive-date=26 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230326025324/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/rahman-stalin-get-honorary-doctorates/story-E3U4gzMBfuiwIPJzn85RyN.html|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.asiantribune.com/node/22046|title=Stalin, Rahman, Annadurai conferred honorary doctorates {{!}} Asian Tribune|website=www.asiantribune.com|access-date=11 August 2019|archive-date=11 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190811200515/http://www.asiantribune.com/node/22046|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.news18.com/news/india/rahman-awarded-doctorate-310195.html|title=A R Rahman to be awarded honorary doctorate|website=News18|date=4 March 2009|access-date=11 August 2019|archive-date=26 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230326025259/https://www.news18.com/news/india/rahman-awarded-doctorate-310195.html|url-status=live}}

Stalin married Durga (alias Shantha) on 20 August 1975 and has two children. His son is Udhayanidhi Stalin, an actor and politician. Udhayanidhi is married to Kiruthiga Udhayanidhi, an Indian Tamil film director. Stalin's daughter is Senthamarai Sabareesan, an entrepreneur and educationist. She is the director of Sunshine Schools, Chennai.{{Cite web|title=Sunshine {{!}} Management|url=http://sunshineschool.in/senior/management.aspx|access-date=25 January 2022|website=sunshineschool.in|archive-date=28 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210928064400/http://sunshineschool.in/senior/management.aspx|url-status=live}} Senthamarai is married to Sabareesan Vedamurthy, an entrepreneur and political strategist.{{Cite web|date=4 April 2021|title=V Sabareesan: Tamil Nadu's first family's premier son-in-law|url=https://indianexpress.com/elections/v-sabareesan-tamil-nadus-first-familys-premier-son-in-law-7258121/|access-date=25 January 2022|website=The Indian Express|language=en|archive-date=21 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220121142001/https://indianexpress.com/elections/v-sabareesan-tamil-nadus-first-familys-premier-son-in-law-7258121/|url-status=live}}

Like his father and namesake, Stalin has publicly disclosed that he is an atheist. But he also said that he is not against any religious beliefs.{{Cite web|title=Not in the name of God: Why MK Stalin's atheism is par for the course|url=https://www.cnbctv18.com/views/not-in-the-name-of-god-why-mk-stalins-atheism-is-par-for-the-course-9230411.htm|access-date=8 May 2021|website=cnbctv18.com|date=7 May 2021|language=en-US|archive-date=8 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210508172755/https://www.cnbctv18.com/views/not-in-the-name-of-god-why-mk-stalins-atheism-is-par-for-the-course-9230411.htm|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|date=8 August 2018|title=M Karunanidhi: An atheist who ruled even as religion ruled politics|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/m-karunanidhi-an-atheist-who-ruled-even-as-religion-ruled-politics-1308328-2018-08-08|access-date=8 May 2021|website=India Today|language=en|archive-date=8 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210508172753/https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/m-karunanidhi-an-atheist-who-ruled-even-as-religion-ruled-politics-1308328-2018-08-08|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|date=8 August 2018|title=M Karunanidhi (1924-2018): An atheist who spoke of God in the smile of the poor|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/m-karunanidhi-1924-2018-an-atheist-who-spoke-of-god-in-the-smile-of-the-poor-5296749/|access-date=8 May 2021|website=The Indian Express|language=en|archive-date=30 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211230123652/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/m-karunanidhi-1924-2018-an-atheist-who-spoke-of-god-in-the-smile-of-the-poor-5296749/|url-status=live}}

His political career began in his early teens when he started the DMK Gopalapuram Youth Wing with several friends.{{Cite web|title=MK Stalin's Big Test In First Tamil Nadu Polls Since Father Karunanidhi's Death|url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-assembly-election-2021-mk-stalins-big-test-in-first-tamil-nadu-polls-since-father-karunanidhis-death-2394647|access-date=20 March 2021|website=NDTV.com|archive-date=20 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210320005531/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-assembly-election-2021-mk-stalins-big-test-in-first-tamil-nadu-polls-since-father-karunanidhis-death-2394647|url-status=live}} As a 14 year old, he campaigned for his uncle, Murasoli Maran, in the 1967 elections.{{cite web | url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/stalin-is-the-cm-candidate-from-dmk/article6957912.ece | title=Waiting in the wings | work=The Hindu | author=B. Kolappan | date=4 March 2015 | access-date=26 August 2017 | archive-date=28 September 2020 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200928070552/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/stalin-is-the-cm-candidate-from-dmk/article6957912.ece | url-status=live }}{{Cite web|date=28 August 2018|title=From Ilaya Thalapathi to DMK chief, Stalin comes out of Karunanidhi's shadows|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/who-is/dmk-chief-mk-stalin-profile-5328255/|access-date=20 March 2021|website=The Indian Express|language=en|archive-date=18 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210718030213/https://indianexpress.com/article/who-is/dmk-chief-mk-stalin-profile-5328255/|url-status=live}} In 1973, Stalin was elected to the General committee of the DMK.{{cite web | url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/tn-election-finally-the-prince-becomes-the-king/articleshow/82364423.cms | title=M K Stalin: Finally, the prince becomes the king | work=The Times of India | date=3 May 2021 | access-date=4 May 2021 | archive-date=3 May 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210503065045/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/tn-election-finally-the-prince-becomes-the-king/articleshow/82364423.cms | url-status=live }}

He came to the limelight when he was jailed in Central Prison, Madras under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA) for protesting against the Emergency in 1976.{{cite web | url=https://www.timesnownews.com/india/article/m-k-stalin-dmk-congress-bjp-aiadmk-pmk-narendra-modi-lok-sabha-elections-2019-mmamata-banerjee-karunanidhi/373379 | title=MK Stalin: The new charioteer of Dravida Munnetra Kazagham | publisher=Times Now | work=Nikhil Jha | date=16 April 2019 | access-date=25 February 2021 | archive-date=18 July 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210718030214/https://www.timesnownews.com/india/article/m-k-stalin-dmk-congress-bjp-aiadmk-pmk-narendra-modi-lok-sabha-elections-2019-mmamata-banerjee-karunanidhi/373379 | url-status=live }}{{cite web | url=https://www.dtnext.in/News/TopNews/2018/08/28185507/1086200/MK-Stalin-From-a-gritty-teenage-campaigner-to-mature-.vpf | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210718030227/https://www.dtnext.in/News/TopNews/2018/08/28185507/1086200/MK-Stalin-From-a-gritty-teenage-campaigner-to-mature-.vpf | url-status=dead | archive-date=18 July 2021 | title=MK Stalin: From a gritty teenage campaigner to mature DMK boss | publisher=DT Next | date=28 August 2018 | access-date=25 February 2021}}{{cite book|author=Ravindra Padalkar|title=Ruling Dynasties of Independent India – Volume 2|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=QLEcEAAAQBAJ&pg=PT170|access-date=25 February 2021|date=14 February 2021|publisher=Notion Press|isbn=978-1-63781-546-5|pages=170–|archive-date=21 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230921160836/https://books.google.com/books?id=QLEcEAAAQBAJ&pg=PT170|url-status=live}} He was beaten up in custody and a fellow DMK prisoner C. Chittibabu died of injuries and police torture while protecting him.{{cite book|author=A. R. Venkatachalapathy|title=Tamil Characters|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=NMB7DwAAQBAJ&pg=PT56|access-date=23 February 2021|date=24 January 2019|publisher=Pan Macmillan|isbn=978-1-5290-2259-9|pages=56–|archive-date=21 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230921150813/https://books.google.com/books?id=NMB7DwAAQBAJ&pg=PT56|url-status=live}}{{cite book|author=R Kannan|title=MGR: A Life|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=2mclDwAAQBAJ&pg=PT207|date=28 June 2017|publisher=Random House Publishers India Pvt. Limited|isbn=978-93-86495-88-4|pages=207–|access-date=25 February 2021|archive-date=21 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230921150739/https://books.google.com/books?id=2mclDwAAQBAJ&pg=PT207|url-status=live}}{{cite web | url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/Stalin-takes-family-on-nostalgia-trip-around-Central-jail/articleshow/4273669.cms | title=Stalin takes family on nostalgia trip around Central jail | work=The Times of India | date=17 March 2009 | access-date=25 February 2021 | archive-date=18 July 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210718030212/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/Stalin-takes-family-on-nostalgia-trip-around-Central-jail/articleshow/4273669.cms | url-status=live }} He wrote his final year BA exams while in prison. Stalin formed the DMK youth wing. In 1982 Stalin became the youth wing secretary of DMK, a post he held for more than four decades.

In 1968, Stalin started the DMK Youth Wing in Gopalapuram in a barber shop with his friends. In 1983, he transformed the Gopalapuram Youth Wing into a Statewide phenomenon and led the frontal as a Secretary, a position he held for more than four decades. During the early stages of the Youth Wing, he travelled across Tamil Nadu with other members to mentor fellow youth of the state in key areas of active politics at the grassroots level.{{Cite web |date=4 July 2019 |title=Udayanidhi Stalin appointed DMK youth wing secretary |url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/national/udayanidhi-stalin-appointed-dmk-youth-wing-secretary/article28282578.ece |access-date=30 September 2022 |website=www.thehindubusinessline.com |language=en |archive-date=26 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230326025515/https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/national/udayanidhi-stalin-appointed-dmk-youth-wing-secretary/article28282578.ece |url-status=live }}

Stalin contested the Assembly polls unsuccessfully from Thousand Lights constituency in Chennai. In 1989 Stalin contested Assembly polls from Thousand Lights constituency again, and won.{{cite web | url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/stalin-files-nomination-papers-set-to-become-dmk-president/articleshow/65551094.cms | title=Stalin files nomination papers, set to become DMK president | publisher=The Economic Times | date=26 August 2018 | access-date=9 April 2021 | archive-date=22 January 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210122182945/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/stalin-files-nomination-papers-set-to-become-dmk-president/articleshow/65551094.cms | url-status=live }} The DMK government got dismissed in 1991 before completing its full five-year term. In 1991, he contested for the third time from the same Assembly constituency, but lost to K. A. Krishnaswamy of the AIADMK. Again in 1996, Stalin won the election as an MLA from the Thousand Lights constituency.

In 2003, Stalin became Deputy General Secretary of the DMK.

In 2011 Stalin changed his constituency for the first time in his political career, moving from Thousand Lights to Kolathur constituency on the outskirts of Chennai city.

Stalin became the city's first directly elected mayor in 1996.{{Cite web |url=http://www.chennaibest.com/discoverchennai/citylifestyle/interview01.asp |title=Towards Singara Chennai - Interview with the Mayor - www.chennaibest.com |access-date=18 November 2006 |archive-date=13 March 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110313074247/http://www.chennaibest.com/discoverchennai/citylifestyle/interview01.asp |url-status=dead }} He coined a pet project called Singara Chennai (Beautiful Chennai), lauded for improving Chennai's infrastructure. His efforts in improving city infrastructure earned him the title of Managara Thanthai (father of the city).{{Cite web|date=5 April 2021|title=Tamil Nadu elections: Can MK Stalin finally break away from Karunanidhi's shadow?|url=https://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-elections-2021-can-mk-stalin-finally-break-away-from-karunanidhis-shadow/2227274/|access-date=13 September 2021|website=The Financial Express|language=en-US|archive-date=27 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210927195236/https://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-elections-2021-can-mk-stalin-finally-break-away-from-karunanidhis-shadow/2227274/|url-status=live}}

During his tenure as mayor, Stalin modernised the garbage disposal system of the city of Chennai by giving priority to cleaning works. He implemented integrated development projects such as health, public construction and schools. He solved the congestion of the city of Chennai by building huge flyovers.{{cite news|title=M K Stalin: From a gritty teenage campaigner to mature DMK boss|work=The Economic Times|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/m-k-stalin-from-a-gritty-teenage-campaigner-to-mature-dmk-boss/articleshow/65580876.cms?from=mdr|access-date=13 September 2021|archive-date=13 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210913175401/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/m-k-stalin-from-a-gritty-teenage-campaigner-to-mature-dmk-boss/articleshow/65580876.cms?from=mdr|url-status=live}} During his first tenure, 9 major flyovers and 49 short bridges were built. He also improved the standard of Corporation Schools to be on par with private schools.{{cite news|last=Kolappan|first=B.|date=28 August 2018|title=An administrator with a good track record|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/an-administrator-witha-good-track-record/article24795862.ece|access-date=13 September 2021|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=13 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210913173826/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/an-administrator-witha-good-track-record/article24795862.ece|url-status=live}} In addition, parks and fountains were set up at 18 major junctions. 81 parks were cleaned and properly maintained.{{Cite news|last=Raman|first=A. Ragu|title=Time to revive call for Singara Chennai|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/time-to-revive-call-for-singara-chennai/articleshow/82698902.cms|access-date=13 September 2021|website=The Times of India|date=17 May 2021|language=en|archive-date=14 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210914040800/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/time-to-revive-call-for-singara-chennai/articleshow/82698902.cms|url-status=live}} Saplings were planted at the Chennai Marina, the second largest beach in the world. The slaughterhouse at Perambur have been modernised to avoid polluting the environment. During his tenure, it was decided to build flyovers on 10 congested roads before the end of his term. ₹95 crores have been allocated for the construction of flyovers. However, 30% of the funds were left over when the flyovers were opened according to him.{{Cite web|title=The case of the flyovers|url=https://frontline.thehindu.com/cover-story/article30251255.ece|access-date=13 September 2021|website=Frontline|date=6 July 2001|language=en|archive-date=13 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210913185035/https://frontline.thehindu.com/cover-story/article30251255.ece|url-status=live}} He was re-elected Mayor for the 2nd time in 2001.{{cite web| url = http://www.rediff.com/news/2001/oct/23tn.htm| title = rediff.com: Stalin re-elected mayor of Madras| access-date = 18 November 2006| archive-date = 14 May 2011| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110514071644/http://www.rediff.com/news/2001/oct/23tn.htm| url-status = live}}

However, the then Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa enacted the Tamil Nadu Municipal Laws (Amendment) Act, in 2002, which prevents a person from holding two elected posts in the government. This law was applied retroactively to Stalin's case (he was an elected Thousand Lights MLA) in a move widely seen as aimed at removing him as Chennai's mayor.{{Cite web |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/cms.dll/articleshow?art_Id=13690000 |title=Mayor's office slips out of Stalin's hand-Cities-The Times of India |website=The Times of India |access-date=18 November 2006 |archive-date=10 September 2004 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040910222547/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/cms.dll/articleshow?art_Id=13690000 |url-status=live }} However, the Madras High Court struck down the law stating that legislative bodies were not "prevented" from making laws affecting the "substantive rights" of persons retrospectively. However, the court held that under Madras (now Chennai) City Municipal Corporation Act, 1919, a person cannot be mayor for two consecutive terms, though unlike Stalin, earlier mayors were not directly elected. MK Stalin did not appeal in the Supreme Court.[https://web.archive.org/web/20030101200629/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1020907/asp/nation/story_1176318.asp The Telegraph - Calcutta: Nation]

In the 2006 Assembly Elections, the DMK regained control of the state assembly. Stalin became the Minister for Rural Development and Local Administration in the Government of Tamil Nadu and retained this office throughout his term. During his tenure, he was instrumental in the extensive spread of Women Self-Help Groups across the State by establishing 1,75,493 Women SHGs. He also established various comprehensive drinking water projects such as Hogenakkal and Ramanathapuram water schemes.{{Cite web|title=Reaching the top, one step at a time -- Stalin style|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2021/may/07/reaching-the-top-one-step-at-a-time-stalin-style-2299391.html|access-date=13 September 2021|website=The New Indian Express|date=7 May 2021 |archive-date=13 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210913180440/https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2021/may/07/reaching-the-top-one-step-at-a-time-stalin-style-2299391.html|url-status=live}} In 2008, he became treasurer of DMK.

On 29 May 2009, Stalin was nominated as Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu by Governor Surjit Singh Barnala.{{Cite web|url=http://www.thestatesman.net/page.news.php?clid=1&theme=&usrsess=1&id=256056|title=Stalin named JP deputy CM|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040331200719/http://www.thestatesman.net/page.news.php?clid=1|archive-date=31 March 2004|url-status=dead|access-date=31 May 2009}} He was first Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.

During the 2016 Assembly election, Stalin went on a statewide tour titled Namakku Naame to appeal to the youth. Stalin won the Kolathur constituency and was appointed as the opposition leader.{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/aiadmk-sees-namakku-naame-as-a-vain-exercise/article7839682.ece|title=AIADMK sees 'Namakku Naame' as a vain exercise|last=Ramakrishnan|first=Deepa H.|date=4 November 2015|work=The Hindu|access-date=11 August 2019|language=en-IN|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=26 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230326025648/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/aiadmk-sees-namakku-naame-as-a-vain-exercise/article7839682.ece|url-status=live}} In 2017, Stalin went on another Namakku Naame tour.{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/stalin-plans-another-namakku-naame-tour/article19891275.ece|title=Stalin plans another 'Namakku Naame' tour|date=20 October 2017|work=The Hindu|access-date=11 August 2019|language=en-IN|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=26 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230326025700/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/stalin-plans-another-namakku-naame-tour/article19891275.ece|url-status=live}} In 2018, his father Karunanidhi died, leaving Stalin the president of the DMK.

File:M.K. Stalin and Sedapatti Muthiah.jpg

Stalin formed the Secular Progressive Alliance in Tamil Nadu and led the alliance in 2019 general election in the state.{{cite news|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/secular-progressive-alliance-will-romp-home-in-lok-sabha-polls-119033100605_1.html|title=Secular Progressive Alliance will romp home in Lok Sabha polls|agency=Press Trust of India|date=31 March 2019|work=Business Standard India|access-date=29 December 2019|archive-date=24 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191224160114/https://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/secular-progressive-alliance-will-romp-home-in-lok-sabha-polls-119033100605_1.html|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.ndtv.com/tamil-nadu-news/lok-sabha-elections-2019-dmk-alliance-announces-constituencies-calls-it-secular-progressive-alliance-2008378|title=DMK Alliance Announces Constituencies, Calls It Secular Progressive Alliance|website=NDTV.com|access-date=29 December 2019|archive-date=11 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190811221116/https://www.ndtv.com/tamil-nadu-news/lok-sabha-elections-2019-dmk-alliance-announces-constituencies-calls-it-secular-progressive-alliance-2008378|url-status=live}} The Secular Progressive Alliance won 39 out of 40 Parliament seats, and 12 out of 21 in the Assembly by-election, with 52% of the vote. It was his first victory since taking charge as DMK President.{{Cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/stalin-wins-big-but-gains-little/articleshow/69472678.cms|title=M K Stalin wins big but gains little in Tamil Nadu|date=24 May 2019|first=D.|last=Govardan|website=The Times of India|language=en|access-date=29 December 2019|archive-date=1 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200301133828/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/stalin-wins-big-but-gains-little/articleshow/69472678.cms|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/election-results-2019-mk-stalin-on-dmk-victory-in-tamil-nadu-amazed-north-united-south-astounded-ind-2046617|title="Amazed North, United South, Astounded India": MK Stalin On DMK Poll Wins|website=NDTV.com|access-date=29 December 2019|archive-date=24 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191224174019/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/election-results-2019-mk-stalin-on-dmk-victory-in-tamil-nadu-amazed-north-united-south-astounded-ind-2046617|url-status=live}}

{{see also|M. K. Stalin ministry}} {{main|Chief Ministership of M. K. Stalin}}

In the 2021 Assembly elections, Stalin led the campaign for the Secular Progressive Alliance. They won 159 seats out of 234, with the DMK itself winning an absolute majority with 132 seats. Stalin took his oath as chief minister on 7 May 2021 along with the rest of his cabinet.{{Cite web|date=2 May 2021|title=DMK chief MK Stalin wins Kolathur comfortably|url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/dmk-chief-mk-stalin-wins-kolathur-comfortably-148174|access-date=13 September 2021|website=The News Minute|language=en|archive-date=13 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210913185403/https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/dmk-chief-mk-stalin-wins-kolathur-comfortably-148174|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=MK Stalin, DMK Chief, Takes Oath As Tamil Nadu Chief Minister|url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/mk-stalin-dmk-chief-takes-oath-as-tamil-nadu-chief-minister-2436771|access-date=7 May 2021|website=NDTV.com|archive-date=7 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210507054957/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/mk-stalin-dmk-chief-takes-oath-as-tamil-nadu-chief-minister-2436771|url-status=live}}

Having taken oath amid the second wave of the pandemic, Stalin started a war room to monitor the status of beds, ambulances, and oxygen supply. He attended an SOS call of a lady, spoke with her for 30 minutes, and arranged for her a bed at a hospital.{{cite news|date=15 May 2021|title=When the Tamil Nadu CM Stalin answered an SOS call at the COVID-19 war room|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/when-the-tn-cm-answered-an-sos-call-at-the-covid-19-war-room/article34564181.ece|access-date=15 August 2021|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=15 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210815182115/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/when-the-tn-cm-answered-an-sos-call-at-the-covid-19-war-room/article34564181.ece|url-status=live}} He wore a PPE suit and visited the COVID-19 patients at their wards "against advice" in Government ESI Medical College Hospital.{{Cite web|title="To Reassure Doctors, Patients": MK Stalin Enters Covid Wards In PPE Suit|url=https://www.ndtv.com/tamil-nadu-news/mk-stalin-enters-covid-wards-in-ppe-suit-to-reassure-doctors-patients-2452427|access-date=15 August 2021|website=NDTV.com|archive-date=15 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210815182114/https://www.ndtv.com/tamil-nadu-news/mk-stalin-enters-covid-wards-in-ppe-suit-to-reassure-doctors-patients-2452427|url-status=live}} A new economic advisory council was set up with leading economists, including Esther Duflo, Raghuram Rajan, Jean Drèze, Arvind Subramanian, and former Finance Secretary S Narayan.{{Cite web|date=21 June 2021|title=Tamil Nadu: Duflo, Rajan, Dreze Among 5-Member Economic Advisory Council to CM Stalin|url=https://www.newsclick.in/Tamil-Nadu-Dufflo-Rajan-Dreze-5-Member-Economic-Advisory-Council-CM-Stalin|access-date=15 August 2021|website=NewsClick|language=en|archive-date=15 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210815182115/https://www.newsclick.in/Tamil-Nadu-Dufflo-Rajan-Dreze-5-Member-Economic-Advisory-Council-CM-Stalin|url-status=live}} Tamil Nadu was branded as a state with highest novel coronavirus vaccine wastage in the previous government but the Stalin government made the state to top in the list of states with lowest COVID-19 wastage policy.{{Cite web|date=14 August 2021|title=Announcements & Achievements In Stalin's 100 days As Tamil Nadu Chief Minister|url=https://news.abplive.com/tamil-nadu/100-days-of-stalin-as-tamil-nadu-cm-important-announcements-and-achievements-1476147|access-date=15 August 2021|website=news.abplive.com|language=en|archive-date=15 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210815183133/https://news.abplive.com/tamil-nadu/100-days-of-stalin-as-tamil-nadu-cm-important-announcements-and-achievements-1476147|url-status=live}}

Stalin handed over appointment orders of the HR & CE Department to trained aspirants of all castes as temple priests in August 2021.{{Cite web|date=14 August 2021|title=DMK govt appoints trained aspirants of all castes as temple priests in Tamil Nadu|url=https://theprint.in/india/dmk-govt-appoints-trained-aspirants-of-all-castes-as-temple-priests-in-tamil-nadu/715315/|access-date=15 August 2021|website=ThePrint|language=en-US|archive-date=15 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210815184517/https://theprint.in/india/dmk-govt-appoints-trained-aspirants-of-all-castes-as-temple-priests-in-tamil-nadu/715315/|url-status=live}} Stalin quoted the reformist leader Periyar in an official release which said Periyar fought for equal rights in worship for all those who believe in God.{{Cite web|title=DMK govt in Tamil Nadu appoints trained aspirants of all castes as priests in temples|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/dmk-govt-in-tamil-nadu-appoints-trained-aspirants-of-all-castes-as-priests-in-temples-1840952-2021-08-15|access-date=15 August 2021|website=India Today|date=15 August 2021 |language=en|archive-date=15 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210815190620/https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/dmk-govt-in-tamil-nadu-appoints-trained-aspirants-of-all-castes-as-priests-in-temples-1840952-2021-08-15|url-status=live}} In August 2021, Stalin ranked first among all Chief ministers of India with 42% in favour, in the "Mood of the Nation" survey done by the India Today magazine.{{Cite web|title=Support for Modi as 'Best Choice for PM' Falls from 66% to 24% in a Year, India Today Poll Finds|url=https://thewire.in/government/narendra-modi-prime-minister-adityanath-india-today-poll|access-date=17 August 2021|website=The Wire|archive-date=17 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210817191200/https://thewire.in/government/narendra-modi-prime-minister-adityanath-india-today-poll|url-status=live}} Stalin changed the name of Sri Lankan Tamil refugee camps to called ‘rehabilitation camps' and said "They are not orphans, we are there for them".{{Cite web|last=Nath|first=Akshaya|title=Sri Lankan Tamil Refugee camps to now be called 'rehabilitation camps': MK Stalin|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/sri-lankan-tamil-refugee-camps-now-rehabilitation-camps-mk-stalin-1846601-2021-08-29|access-date=17 September 2021|website=India Today|date=29 August 2021 |language=en|archive-date=29 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210829083328/https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/sri-lankan-tamil-refugee-camps-now-rehabilitation-camps-mk-stalin-1846601-2021-08-29|url-status=live}} In September 2021, he announced that Periyar's birth anniversary will be celebrated as Social Justice Day every year.{{Cite web|title=Tamil Nadu To Celebrate Periyar's Birthday As 'Social Justice Day', Says CM Stalin|url=https://www.outlookindia.com/website/story/india-news-tamil-nadu-to-celebrate-periyars-birthday-as-social-justice-day-says-cm-stalin/393750|access-date=17 September 2021|website=www.outlookindia.com|date=6 September 2021 |archive-date=17 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210917162950/https://www.outlookindia.com/website/story/india-news-tamil-nadu-to-celebrate-periyars-birthday-as-social-justice-day-says-cm-stalin/393750|url-status=live}}

In June 2021, Stalin announced that the state law ministry will review the legal cases filed by the previous government. In September 2021, Stalin's government withdrew over 5570 legal cases filed by the previous AIADMK government from the past 10 years against the journalists and the protestors seeking the repeal of the three farm laws promulgated by the Union government, Citizenship Amendment Act, methane extraction, neutrino project, Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant and the Chennai-Salem Expressway project.{{Cite web|date=17 September 2021|title=Tamil Nadu withdraws over 5000 cases against protesters of CAA, farm laws|url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/tamil-nadu-withdraws-over-5000-cases-against-protesters-caa-farm-laws-155398|access-date=17 September 2021|website=The News Minute|language=en|archive-date=17 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210917161444/https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/tamil-nadu-withdraws-over-5000-cases-against-protesters-caa-farm-laws-155398|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|date=17 September 2021|title=Tamil Nadu govt withdraws 5,570 cases filed against protestors since 2011|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-govt-withdraws-5-570-cases-filed-against-protestors-since-2011-101631894425996.html|access-date=17 September 2021|website=Hindustan Times|language=en|archive-date=17 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210917161448/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-govt-withdraws-5-570-cases-filed-against-protestors-since-2011-101631894425996.html|url-status=live}}

In May 2022, Stalin hailed the release of Perarivalan, convicted in the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi, and hugged him on his visit of gratitude at the Chennai Airport.{{Cite web|date=20 May 2022|title=Tamil Nadu CM hugs Perarivalan on his release, Congress miffed|url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/tamil-nadu-cm-hugs-perarivalan-his-release-congress-miffed-164197|website=The News Minute|language=en|access-date=21 May 2022|archive-date=20 May 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220520141033/https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/tamil-nadu-cm-hugs-perarivalan-his-release-congress-miffed-164197|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|date=19 May 2022|title=Congress sad, ally DMK hails Rajiv assassination convict release order|url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/congress-sad-ally-dmk-hails-rajiv-assassination-convict-release-order/cid/1865761|website=The Telegraph (India)|language=en|access-date=21 May 2022|archive-date=21 May 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220521145502/https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/congress-sad-ally-dmk-hails-rajiv-assassination-convict-release-order/cid/1865761|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|date=18 May 2022|title=Stalin meets Perarivalan, Arputhammal, shares picture|url=https://www.dtnext.in/tamilnadu/2022/05/18/stalin-meets-perarivalan-arputhammal-shares-picture|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220518140211/https://www.dtnext.in/tamilnadu/2022/05/18/stalin-meets-perarivalan-arputhammal-shares-picture|url-status=dead|archive-date=18 May 2022|website=DT Next|language=en}}{{Cite web|date=19 May 2022|title=பேரறிவாளனை கட்டியணைத்த "தமிழக முதல்வர்!" கடுகடுக்கும் கதர்கள்! கருணாநிதி பாணியில் களமாடும் ஸ்டாலின்?|url=https://tamil.oneindia.com/news/chennai/why-tamil-nadu-cm-mk-stalin-hug-perarivalan-will-he-take-stand-as-like-as-karunanidhi-458875.html|website=oneindia tamil|access-date=21 May 2022|archive-date=20 May 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220520210802/https://tamil.oneindia.com/news/chennai/why-tamil-nadu-cm-mk-stalin-hug-perarivalan-will-he-take-stand-as-like-as-karunanidhi-458875.html|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|date=18 May 2022|title=MK Stalin Meets Perarivalan; Says TN Govt's Right Upheld By SC Ruling|url=https://indiaaheadnews.com/tamil-nadu/mk-stalin-meets-perarivalan-says-tn-govts-right-upheld-by-sc-ruling-204997/|website=India Ahead|language=en|access-date=21 May 2022|archive-date=18 May 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220518180006/https://indiaaheadnews.com/tamil-nadu/mk-stalin-meets-perarivalan-says-tn-govts-right-upheld-by-sc-ruling-204997/|url-status=live}}

;Committee assignments of 16th Tamil Nadu Assembly{{cite web |title=Members of the Standing Committees of the House (2021-2022) |url=https://www.assembly.tn.gov.in/16thassembly/standing_committees.php |website=Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly |access-date=21 June 2022 |archive-date=12 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220312035152/https://assembly.tn.gov.in/ |url-status=live }}

• Member (2021–23) Business Advisory Committee
• Member (2021–23) Committee on Rules

Stalin's career in the political arena has seen its ups and downs. From a challenger to an emerging pragmatic leader, the people of Tamil Nadu have credited his administrative skills and firm rejection of sycophancy. An example of this was when M.K Stalin asked the Education Minister, Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhil not to print his photographs on 65 lakh bags meant for distribution among schoolchildren in the state, opting to retain pictures of his political adversaries from the previous government that had sanctioned the project.{{Cite web |date=4 September 2021 |title=Stalin shows the way |url=https://www.sundayguardianlive.com/news/stalin-shows-way |access-date=11 October 2022 |website=The Sunday Guardian Live |language=en-US |archive-date=11 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221011113651/https://www.sundayguardianlive.com/news/stalin-shows-way |url-status=live }}

Stalin was commended by domain experts and other ministers across the country for not using public money to enhance his popularity among the “masses”.{{Cite web |title="அவர் பெயர் ஸ்டாலின்.." : முதல்வருக்கு பிரபல ஆராய்ச்சியாளரும் கல்வியாளருமான அசோக் ஸ்வாயின் புகழாரம்! |url=https://www.kalaignarseithigal.com/tamilnadu/2021/11/05/researcher-ashok-swain-praised-chief-minister-mk-stalin |access-date=11 October 2022 |website=www.kalaignarseithigal.com |date=5 November 2021 |language=en |archive-date=11 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221011113652/https://www.kalaignarseithigal.com/tamilnadu/2021/11/05/researcher-ashok-swain-praised-chief-minister-mk-stalin |url-status=live }}

On 2 September 2021 the actor turned former Union Minister Chiranjeevi met with Stalin to commend him on governance efficacy and said he proved his mettle in handling the grave situation of COVID-19 pandemic. The media houses in Kerala lauded Stalin on his policies and efforts in controlling the spread of COVID-19 during the second wave, provision of free bus pass for women and ₹4,000 as a pandemic relief for ration card holders.{{Citation |title=Special Story On Tamilnadu CM MK Stalin Native Place {{!}} Andhra Pradesh {{!}} ABN Telugu | date=9 May 2021 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-GaHVJD3JOc |language=en |access-date=11 October 2022 |archive-date=11 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221011113650/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-GaHVJD3JOc |url-status=live }}

The Shiv Sena Parliamentarian Sanjay Raut, in his weekly column Rokthok in party mouthpiece Saamana praised Stalin's governance style and criticised the centre's move to omit Jawaharlal Nehru and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad’s picture from ICHR’s Independence day poster ‘Azadi Ke Amrit Mahotsav.’ Raut said the central government is practising the politics of revenge and should learn a lesson from Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Stalin, who allowed the distribution of 6.5 million school bags carrying photos of political rivals former chief ministers J Jayalalitha and E Palaniswami of the AIADMK, to ensure public money is not being spent on political vendetta.{{Cite web |date=5 September 2021 |title=Shiv Sena says Modi needs to thank Nehru for creating national assets |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/shiv-sena-says-modi-needs-to-thank-nehru-for-creating-national-assets-101630829614672.html |access-date=11 October 2022 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |archive-date=11 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221011113651/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/shiv-sena-says-modi-needs-to-thank-nehru-for-creating-national-assets-101630829614672.html |url-status=live }}

Karnataka Chief Minister, Basavaraj Bommai commended Stalin's nuanced policies and continual effort in controlling the spread of COVID-19 at the peak of the second wave.{{cn|date= March 2025}}

1. Anna University conferred an honorary doctorate for Stalin for his contributions to governance and community development.{{Cite web |date=1 August 2009 |title=Rahman, Stalin get honorary doctorates |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/rahman-stalin-get-honorary-doctorates/story-E3U4gzMBfuiwIPJzn85RyN.html |access-date=11 October 2022 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |archive-date=26 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230326025324/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/rahman-stalin-get-honorary-doctorates/story-E3U4gzMBfuiwIPJzn85RyN.html |url-status=live }}
2. The Kentucky Colonel Award, the highest award given by the Commonwealth of Kentucky in the United States, was given to Stalin for his public service.{{Cite web |title='Kentucky Colonel' award for DMK leader Stalin |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2012/feb/26/kentucky-colonel-award-for-dmk-leader-stalin-343881.html |access-date=11 October 2022 |website=The New Indian Express |date=16 May 2012 |archive-date=11 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221011113648/https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2012/feb/26/kentucky-colonel-award-for-dmk-leader-stalin-343881.html |url-status=live }}
3. Stalin was also honoured as Kentucky's Goodwill Ambassador. It is imperative to note that the honour was formerly bestowed to notable personalities such as, Former US Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and Ronald Reagan, Nobel laureate Winston Churchill and world-famous boxer Mohammed Ali.{{Cite web |title='Kentucky Colonel' award for MK Stalin |url=https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-kentucky-colonel-award-for-mk-stalin-1655248 |access-date=11 October 2022 |website=DNA India |language=en |archive-date=11 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221011113651/https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-kentucky-colonel-award-for-mk-stalin-1655248 |url-status=live }}
4. The Government of Tamil Nadu on 23 February 2011 received the Special Award for Best State among the Largest States in India and the Diamond State Award for Best State in 3 categories namely Civil Safety, Drinking Water and Sanitation and Women's Development.{{Cite web |title=Tamil Nadu & Himachal Pradesh win top honours at IBN7 Diamond States Awards |url=https://www.afaqs.com/media-briefs/47946_tamil-nadu--himachal-pradesh-win-top-honours-at-ibn7-diamond-states-awards |access-date=11 October 2022 |website=afaqs! |date=23 February 2011 |archive-date=11 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221011113652/https://www.afaqs.com/media-briefs/47946_tamil-nadu--himachal-pradesh-win-top-honours-at-ibn7-diamond-states-awards |url-status=live }}
5. Tamil Nadu won the most number of Nirmal Gram Awards for its exceptional role in maintaining sanitation in the villages in the state. This prestigious award was received during Stalin's tenure as Minister of Rural and Local Administrator.{{Cite web |title=Trichi in TN bags highest number of Nirmal Gram Awards |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2008/nov/07/trichi-in-tn-bags-highest-number-of-nirmal-gram-awards-5138.html |access-date=11 October 2022 |website=The New Indian Express |date=14 May 2012 |archive-date=11 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221011113651/https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2008/nov/07/trichi-in-tn-bags-highest-number-of-nirmal-gram-awards-5138.html |url-status=live }}

Actor

• Ore Raththam (1987)
• Makkal Aanayittal (1988)
• Kurinji Malar- TV Series (late 1988?)
• Suriya — TV Series

Producer

• Nambikkai Natchathram (1978)

{{Portal|Biography|Politics|India}}

• M. K. Stalin ministry

{{notelist}}

{{reflist}}

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{{s-bef|before=M. Karunanidhi}}

{{s-ttl|title=Leader of Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam|Leader of DMK|years= 28 August 2018 – Present}}

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{{commons category}}

• [http://www.assembly.tn.gov.in/12thAssembly/profiles/010.htm Tamil Nadu Assembly Profile]

{{Council of Ministers of Tamil Nadu|state=collapsed}}

{{Current Indian chief ministers}}

{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Stalin, M. K.}}

Category:1953 births

Category:20th-century Indian male actors

Category:Actors in Tamil cinema

Category:Chief ministers from Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam

Category:Chief ministers of Tamil Nadu

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Category:Indian Tamil people

Category:People of the Sri Lankan civil war

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Category:21st-century mayors of places in India

Category:20th-century mayors of places in India