A high-level delegation from Tamil Nadu's principal opposition party, the AIADMK, held crucial talks with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in New Delhi on Thursday. The meeting, seen as politically significant ahead of the 2026 state assembly elections, focused on securing greater financial support from the Centre for development projects in Tamil Nadu.
Delegation Seeks Enhanced Central Assistance
The AIADMK team comprised former minister S P Velumani and the party's two Rajya Sabha members, C Ve Shanmugam and M Dhanapal. They met Sitharaman at the Parliament complex. Velumani, a close confidant of AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami (EPS), formally submitted a representation to the Finance Minister.
The core demand was for enhanced central financial assistance to fuel various development initiatives across Tamil Nadu. The leaders argued that increased funding is vital for the state's infrastructure and welfare schemes.
Push for Metro Rail Projects in Coimbatore and Madurai
A major point of discussion was the revival of proposed metro rail systems for two key Tier-II cities. The delegation specifically urged the Union government to reconsider its rejection of metro rail projects for Coimbatore and Madurai.
This appeal highlights the AIADMK's focus on addressing regional development disparities and improving urban mobility outside Chennai. The party is pushing for these large-scale infrastructure projects to be granted approval and funding.
Political Undertones Ahead of 2026 Elections
According to an AIADMK leader familiar with the discussions, the talks revolved around the upcoming 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly polls. The meeting is part of the party's broader strategy to engage with the central government on issues that resonate with the Tamil electorate.
Velumani's visit gains added context due to the ongoing tussle among former and present constituents of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the state. It also follows recent trips to the capital by state BJP president Nainar Nagenthran and his predecessor K Annamalai, who met Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Furthermore, Velumani is considered close to Union Minister Piyush Goyal, who has been appointed as the BJP's election in-charge for Tamil Nadu. Goyal is scheduled to visit the state on December 23, adding another layer to the political maneuvering.
This high-profile engagement underscores the AIADMK's efforts to position itself as a proactive advocate for Tamil Nadu's interests at the Centre, even as it navigates a complex political landscape in the run-up to the next state election.
