Chennai, Feb 2 (NationPress) MDMK General Secretary Vaiko vehemently condemned the Union Budget for 2026-27 on Monday, claiming that Tamil Nadu has been “totally let down” by the Central government at a vital political juncture, especially with the Assembly elections looming in the state.

During a press briefing in Coimbatore, Vaiko expressed disappointment over the lack of anticipated financial aid for Tamil Nadu in the Budget, particularly given the proximity of the elections. He asserted that expectations for additional funding have been completely shattered, as the Centre failed to unveil any substantial allocations or projects for the state.

Furthermore, Vaiko criticized the Union government for its handling of fuel prices, noting that despite crude oil prices being around USD 50 per barrel, the Centre did not lower petrol and diesel prices. This situation, he argued, has increased the financial strain on everyday citizens who are already grappling with escalating living expenses.

He accused the government of being indifferent to public welfare by not transferring the benefits of lower crude prices to consumers.

Questioning the economic foundations of the Budget, the MDMK leader remarked that the Centre's announcement of borrowing Rs 11 lakh crore rendered the target of achieving seven percent economic growth highly implausible. He stated, “You cannot discuss robust growth while simultaneously increasing debt to such levels,” calling the Budget's projections out of touch with economic realities.

Vaiko further alleged that critical infrastructure projects in Tamil Nadu have been neglected, asserting that metro rail initiatives in the state have not received sufficient funding, thus reinforcing his claim that Tamil Nadu has been sidelined in the overall resource allocation.

He stated that the Budget again highlighted a pattern of overlook towards the state.

On political matters, Vaiko remarked that it was not the right moment to discuss seat-sharing or power-sharing arrangements.

He clarified that MDMK has not sought any share in power but reiterated his party’s dedication to continuing the “Dravidian model of governance” in Tamil Nadu.

Expressing faith in state leadership, Vaiko predicted that M.K. Stalin would once again become Chief Minister after the next Assembly elections.

He also sharply criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi, claiming that the PM lacks a favorable reputation among the populace.

Vaiko announced that in light of the upcoming Assembly elections, MDMK would vigorously campaign throughout Tamil Nadu to highlight what he described as the Centre’s failures and the injustice inflicted upon the state through the Union Budget.