Stalin, Udhayanidhi Hit Back at TVK Over Budget, Drought Criticism
Chennai: The Tamil Nadu budget presented by the DMK-led government has sparked a sharp political exchange, with Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and his son, Udhayanidhi Stalin, accusing the opposition Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) of failing farmers. The remarks came after TVK leaders alleged that the budget was more about praising the leadership than addressing the acute drought conditions in the state.
Addressing the media on Tuesday, Stalin dismissed the allegations, stating that the government had allocated substantial funds for drought relief and farmer welfare. "The opposition is indulging in false propaganda. Our budget prioritises water management, crop insurance, and direct benefit transfers to farmers. Those who have no track record of helping farmers are now lecturing us," he said.
Udhayanidhi Stalin, the Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs, echoed similar sentiments, asserting that TVK, led by actor-turned-politician Vijay, had no grassroots presence or concrete policy proposals. "They talk about farmers but have not been able to organise a single successful agitation for their cause. Their claims are hollow," he added.
The controversy began earlier this week when TVK functionaries held a protest, alleging that the budget ignored the distress of farmers in the state's northern and southern districts, which have been reeling under severe water scarcity. They claimed that the budget allocated only a fraction of the required funds for drought mitigation and instead focused on projects that would generate political mileage for the ruling party.
Political analysts suggest that the exchange marks an escalation in tensions between the DMK and TVK, which has been positioning itself as a third front in Tamil Nadu politics. While the DMK has retained its core support base, TVK has gained traction among youth and urban voters, making it a potential challenger in the upcoming local body elections.
In response to TVK's criticism, the government released a detailed statement listing measures taken in the last financial year, including the construction of check dams, desilting of irrigation canals, and disbursement of drought relief to affected families. The statement also highlighted a 15% increase in agricultural subsidies under the current budget.
However, TVK leaders remained unconvinced and demanded a special session to discuss the drought situation. "The budget is a display of arrogance. The government is not listening to the voice of the people," said a senior TVK leader, speaking to reporters in Chennai.
The political row comes at a time when parts of Tamil Nadu are experiencing one of the wettest monsoon seasons in recent years, but experts point out that uneven rainfall distribution has left several districts still facing water stress. Farmers across the state have urged the government to ensure adequate supply for irrigation, particularly in rain-fed regions.
Stalin, nevertheless, reiterated his government's commitment to agriculture. "We have always stood with farmers, from waiving loans to ensuring fair prices. The opposition can make noise, but they cannot match our actions," he asserted.
The debate is expected to continue when the state assembly reconvenes, with the opposition likely to move a resolution demanding a detailed discussion on drought management.
