Is Anbumani Ramadoss Right to Criticize DMK on Ration Shop Reforms?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Anbumani Ramadoss criticizes the DMK government for unfulfilled PDS reforms.
- Over 50 months in power, the DMK has not implemented significant changes.
- 37,328 ration shops operate under various departments, causing disparities.
- The promises made in the 2021 manifesto remain unaddressed.
- Public trust in the DMK is eroding ahead of the 2026 elections.
Chennai, June 26 (NationPress) The president of Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK), Anbumani Ramadoss, has publicly condemned the DMK government for its inability to execute crucial reforms in the Public Distribution System (PDS), as outlined in its manifesto during the 2021 Assembly elections.
In a strongly phrased statement, Anbumani highlighted that, even after being in power for over 50 months, the DMK has failed to implement any meaningful changes to enhance the management of ration shops statewide.
“Currently, there are 37,328 ration shops operating under various departments, such as Cooperatives and Food. This disjointed framework has resulted in considerable inconsistencies in working conditions, salaries, and employee benefits,” he claimed.
He reminded that the DMK had promised in its 2021 election manifesto that all ration shops would be consolidated under a single administrative department to ensure a standardized and efficient system.
“Unfortunately, that commitment has only existed on paper, and the issues confronting ration shop workers remain unresolved,” he stated.
The PMK leader further criticized the government for neglecting other PDS-related promises, such as the distribution of goods in pre-packaged bundles, the revival of black gram supply, and the allocation of an extra kilogram of sugar to ration cardholders.
“These pledges have been entirely overlooked. The public is left feeling disillusioned, and the trust they placed in the DMK is diminishing,” he remarked.
Anbumani called upon Chief Minister M. K. Stalin to take prompt action and ensure that the commitments made during the election campaign are honored.
“The government needs to act swiftly to resolve the issues faced by ration shop employees and the citizens relying on the PDS,” he insisted.
This criticism comes at a time when the DMK government is facing increasing scrutiny from opposition parties regarding its management of welfare programs and electoral promises.
As the 2026 Assembly elections approach, the ruling party is expected to feel mounting pressure to show significant advancements on its commitments.