Chennai: The first budget presented by the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government has drawn sharp criticism from the opposition, with AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami awarding it a ‘zero’ and labeling it a ‘huge disappointment’. Palaniswami, speaking to reporters after the budget’s presentation, alleged that the ruling party has failed to introduce any new schemes and has instead resorted to renaming existing initiatives from previous AIADMK and DMK administrations. He criticized the government for what he termed ‘sticker politics,’ asserting that the budget lacks substantive announcements and a clear roadmap for the state’s progress.
Opposition Alleges Failure to Fulfill Poll Promises
Palaniswami highlighted that despite the TVK government being in office for approximately 85 days, no significant new schemes have been introduced. He specifically pointed out the absence of crucial poll promises in the budget, such as the promised increase in monthly financial assistance for women from ₹1,000 to ₹2,500, the provision of six free LPG cylinders annually, and a comprehensive farm loan waiver. The AIADMK leader questioned the government’s commitment to these assurances, stating that voters expected a clear plan for their implementation.
Concerns Over State Finances and Debt
Adding to his critique, Palaniswami raised concerns about Tamil Nadu’s financial health. He pointed to the state’s staggering debt, reportedly reaching ₹10.98 lakh crore, and a fiscal deficit of ₹1.21 lakh crore. Palaniswami expressed skepticism about the newly formed committee for economic reforms, suggesting it might be a superficial measure rather than a genuine effort to drive growth. He drew a parallel between the current administration’s fiscal management and that of the previous DMK regime, claiming that the state government appears to be operating on borrowed funds.
The AIADMK leader contrasted the current situation with his party’s tenure, asserting that the AIADMK managed the economy efficiently, even during the COVID-19 pandemic. He cited the ‘Gold for Mangalsutra’ scheme as an example of an AIADMK initiative that he claims the current government has rebranded.
Broader Political Reactions
Other opposition parties also voiced their criticisms. BJP leaders described the budget as disappointing and lacking a long-term vision, echoing the sentiment that many schemes were repackaged from previous regimes. DMDK General Secretary Premallatha Vijayakant noted the budget’s lack of a clear roadmap to reduce the state’s debt, despite some welcome announcements on river restoration and electric buses. Meanwhile, PMK President Anbumani Ramadoss welcomed certain aspects, such as the proposed Right to Public Services Act and irrigation projects, but found the allocation for the Cauvery-Gundar project inadequate.
CPI State Secretary M. Veerapandian acknowledged positive measures like the extension of the breakfast scheme and AI skill training initiatives but lamented the failure to address unemployment, regularisation of contract workers, and crop loan waivers. The budget, presented by Finance Minister N. Marie Wilson, has indeed sparked a significant political debate, with the opposition questioning the government’s ability to deliver on its promises and manage the state’s finances effectively.
The Chenab Times News Desk