Even as political parties have been claiming political motive behind Rajinikanth getting the Padma Vibushan, BJP State President Tamilisai has reiterated that the actor was recognised for his contribution to cinema.

Briefing reporters at the Coimbatore International Airport, Tamilisai said that Rajinikanth was one of the first actors to raise his voice for the linking of rivers and interstate water problems.

“These are important awards that are given to honour the contributions of people in various fields. Rajini is not the only person to receive the award, then why are there so many controversies over the selection ?,” she asked.

She further added that she was visiting the city to make preliminary arrangements ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Coimbatore. “The arrival of Modi will bring about a change in the South Indian politics,” she said.

She further added that PM would be visiting the city to open the ESI hospital at Singanallur on February 2. He would also be attending a public meeting at the V.O.C park grounds in the evening.

She later attended a meeting with party officials at a private hotel in the city.