Did CM Stalin Attend NITI Aayog Meet Due to a Crisis?

Chennai, May 25 (NationPress) The general secretary of AIADMK and Leader of Opposition in the Tamil Nadu Assembly, Edappadi K. Palaniswami, stated on Sunday that Chief Minister M.K. Stalin attended the NITI Aayog meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 24 primarily because the state is currently facing significant challenges.

While addressing reporters in Coimbatore, Palaniswami pointed out that CM Stalin had previously boycotted NITI Aayog meetings for three consecutive years, which resulted in Tamil Nadu missing out on crucial opportunities for Central funding and development initiatives.

“Had he previously participated and voiced Tamil Nadu's demands, the state could have reaped the benefits. Instead, he opted not to represent the needs of the populace,” he remarked.

Palaniswami suggested that CM Stalin’s sudden attendance at Saturday’s meeting indicated that “there is a problem now,” which necessitated his engagement with the Prime Minister.

“We will only know the specifics of their discussion if the Prime Minister himself discloses it,” he added.

Recalling CM Stalin’s past actions, Palaniswami highlighted that while in the Opposition, the DMK leader had protested against PM Modi’s visits to Tamil Nadu by releasing black balloons.

“Now that he is Chief Minister, he has taken a different stance and waves a white flag during the Prime Minister's visits,” he said, ridiculing the apparent shift in attitude.

Palaniswami further accused the ruling DMK of rampant corruption under its 'Dravidian model' governance.

He noted that the Enforcement Directorate had carried out raids and initiated investigations into alleged misconduct within TASMAC, the state-operated liquor distribution network.

“The corruption within TASMAC is well-known. Although the matter is currently sub judice and I cannot delve into specifics, it is under serious scrutiny,” he stated.

Regarding law and order, the AIADMK leader claimed that safety for women, children, and the general public has significantly declined. He connected the surge in violent crimes, such as murder and robbery, to rampant drug abuse across the state.

“Individuals addicted to drugs frequently engage in such criminal activities. I have consistently raised this issue in the Assembly and with the media, urging the government to implement strong measures against drug use and trafficking. Yet, no substantial action has been taken,” he mentioned.

Palaniswami concluded by stating that the government has failed to address critical issues, despite numerous warnings and demands for accountability.