How Can CM Stalin Ensure Effective Clean Water Delivery Under Jal Jeevan Mission?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Immediate action is needed to address corruption in JJM.
- Safe drinking water is a fundamental right for all citizens.
- Collaboration between state and Central governments is essential for effective implementation.
- Monitoring quality and timely project completion is crucial.
- Public accountability and administrative efficiency must be prioritized.
Chennai, Oct 5 (NationPress) Tamil Nadu BJP spokesperson A.N.S. Prasad has called on Chief Minister M.K. Stalin to implement immediate "corrective" actions to ensure the successful execution of the Central government's flagship program, Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM). He emphasized the need to tackle allegations of corruption and inefficiency that are obstructing access to clean drinking water in rural regions.
Prasad insisted that the state government must "act decisively and without delay" to ensure that villages with tap connections under JJM are indeed receiving safe drinking water.
"Despite substantial funding from the Modi government, residents in numerous villages continue to report dry taps and incomplete pipeline installations. The Tamil Nadu government must not permit corruption and negligence to strip citizens of their fundamental right to drinking water," he declared.
He noted that the Union government has mandated withholding funds allocated to contractors who fail to meet quality standards or complete projects punctually.
"If there are any lapses, delays, or corruption, funding must be halted immediately - this is the Centre's explicit directive," he stated, urging the Stalin-led DMK government to enforce this rigorously and avert disruptions to the scheme.
According to Prasad, Tamil Nadu has seen considerable progress since the initiation of JJM in August 2019, when just 17.37% of rural households had tap water connections.
"Thanks to relentless efforts by the Modi administration, coverage has now reached 89.25%, with over 1.11 crore households connected. However, ensuring a consistent water supply is a state responsibility, and in this regard, the DMK has faltered," Prasad claimed.
He cautioned that inadequate monitoring and corruption could jeopardize Central funding, adversely affecting millions of rural residents.
"This would be an egregious injustice to those relying on JJM for safe water," he remarked.
Prasad also criticized CM Stalin for "politicizing" Centre-state relationships instead of prioritizing service delivery. "At DMK events, the Chief Minister repeatedly alleges that the BJP aims to 'control' Tamil Nadu and that funds are being withheld - these assertions are unfounded and misleading. Rather than engaging in political theatrics, the government should focus on rectifying its administrative shortcomings," he said.
Describing JJM as a "lifeline for millions", the BJP spokesperson urged CM Stalin to collaborate with the Centre in a transparent and effective manner.
"Stop blaming and start delivering - the people of Tamil Nadu deserve clean drinking water, not empty slogans," Prasad concluded.