AIADMK Leader Accuses DMK of Election-Driven Cash Transfer
In Chennai, hours after the Tamil Nadu government credited 5,000 rupees to beneficiaries of the Kalaignar Mahalir Urimai Thittam, AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami strongly criticized the move, labeling it as a desperate act driven by fear of electoral defeat. Palaniswami, commonly known as EPS, refuted Chief Minister M K Stalin's allegations that external forces were attempting to stall the welfare scheme, asserting that no one was trying to block any such measures.
Refutation of Allegations and Scheme Details
EPS emphasized that the scheme was not interrupted during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, countering claims of interference. He further accused the DMK government of copying the AIADMK's promises, noting that Stalin's announcement to enhance monthly assistance from 1,000 to 2,000 rupees mirrored the AIADMK's proposed 'Kulavilakku scheme,' which also promised 2,000 rupees monthly. On the topic of a 2,000-rupee summer special grant, EPS questioned why such a grant was not provided in past summers, suggesting inconsistency in governance.
Financial Criticisms and Opposition Reactions
EPS alleged that since the scheme's launch in September 2023, the government has disbursed a total of 34,000 rupees to each beneficiary. However, he claimed that each family suffered a loss of 3.5 lakh rupees during this period due to what he described as DMK's misgovernance. The criticism extended beyond the AIADMK, with BJP state president Nainar Nagenthran accusing the government of denying financial assistance to women for long periods and now attempting a last-minute course correction ahead of elections.
AMMK general secretary TTV Dhinakaran echoed similar sentiments, alleging that the announcement was not out of genuine concern for women but stemmed from fear of electoral defeat. PMK president Anbumani Ramadoss commented that the public is aware welfare schemes would not be stopped during elections, implying transparency issues. NTK leader Seeman questioned the state's fiscal position, accusing the DMK government of adding to Tamil Nadu's debt burden, raising concerns about financial sustainability.
The opposition's unified stance highlights ongoing political tensions in Tamil Nadu, with welfare schemes becoming a focal point in pre-election debates. The DMK's move, while aimed at supporting women, faces scrutiny over its timing and motivations, as rivals question the government's commitment and fiscal responsibility.
