Opposition Councillors Unite to Criticise TVK Government's Civic Work in Chennai

In a rare display of cross-party unity, councillors from the DMK, BJP, and AIADMK jointly criticised the current Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government's handling of civic infrastructure in Chennai during the Chennai Corporation Council meeting on Wednesday.

BJP councillor Uma Anandan said the previous DMK government was more effective in delivering services and developing civic infrastructure. 'There has been no progress in civic infrastructure projects during the TVK rule,' she stated.

DMK councillor Viswanathan noted that the previous AIADMK government used to address grievances from opposition councillors. 'However, officials under the TVK government are scared and reluctant to resolve civic issues raised by DMK councillors. Work has not been implemented to address these issues,' he alleged.

Several DMK councillors raised concerns about disruption of water supply and a rise in mosquito density in various parts of the city.

Chennai Mayor R. Priya said the DMK, after coming to power in 2021, did not disrupt services under popular AIADMK welfare schemes such as Amma Canteens, and retained photos of former Chief Minister Jayalalithaa. 'But the TVK government has been changing the names of DMK welfare schemes. The people have been observing how the TVK government has been providing services,' she said.

Deputy Mayor Mu. Magesh Kumaar stated that the DMK had not opposed the renaming of schemes after leaders like K. Kamaraj by the TVK.

DMK councillor Parithi Elamsurithi announced plans for a campaign against inadequate funding for civic infrastructure projects under the Councillors Ward Development Scheme.

Congress floor leader Samuel Diraviam defended the TVK government, accusing the BJP of joining hands with the DMK to spread disinformation. He thanked Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay for initiatives for Chennai residents.