In a significant show of political support, Communist Party of India (Marxist) state secretary P Shanmugam has strongly defended the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government's recently announced Tamil Nadu Assured Pension Scheme (TAPS). Shanmugam launched a sharp critique against All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami for his opposition to the new pension plan.
Political Clash Over Pension Policy
The controversy erupted after Edappadi K Palaniswami, commonly referred to as EPS, criticised the Tamil Nadu Assured Pension Scheme, labelling it a mere election tactic by the DMK government. This accusation did not sit well with the CPM leader, who swiftly came to the defence of the state administration.
Taking to the social media platform X, Shanmugam issued a pointed rebuttal. He turned the tables on the AIADMK leader by questioning why his party failed to devise a superior pension scheme during their own decade-long tenure in power. "Even in your criticism, why did you not say that if AIADMK comes to power, you will implement the old pension scheme," Shanmugam challenged in his post.
Historical Context and AIADMK's Record
In his defence of TAPS, Shanmugam brought up a crucial historical fact. He reminded the public and his political opponent that the old pension scheme was discontinued in 2003. This decision was taken during the AIADMK government led by the late Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa.
"You can only find fault, but can't fulfil anything," Shanmugam asserted, accusing the principal opposition party of being strong on criticism but weak on delivering substantive alternatives for government employees and pensioners. His argument centred on the AIADMK's inability to propose a concrete plan, either by reviving the old scheme or creating a new one, during their own rule.
Implications for Tamil Nadu's Political Landscape
This public backing from a key left-party leader strengthens the DMK's position regarding TAPS. The support highlights the continuing alliance dynamics in Tamil Nadu politics, where the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance includes parties like the CPM.
The debate over TAPS is more than just a policy disagreement; it is a political battleground. The DMK government presents the scheme as a welfare measure for its employees, while the AIADMK attempts to frame it as a populist move ahead of future elections. Shanmugam's intervention effectively counters the opposition's narrative by questioning their own legacy and alternative vision.
As the war of words continues, the focus remains on which party can convincingly claim to protect the long-term financial security of the state's workforce. The CPM leader's pointed questions have certainly raised the stakes in this ongoing political confrontation.
