Ruling party leaders expressed disapproval towards a DMK minister in Tamil Nadu for his contentious comments about North Indian migrant workers. The minister, MRK Panneerselvam, made these remarks at an event in Chengalpattu, highlighting the employment of North Indian workers in low-wage jobs in the state. His statement about people from the North migrating for job opportunities triggered backlash from various political figures, who deemed the comments divisive and derogatory towards migrant workers.
Union Minister Chirag Paswan, addressing the issue, criticized leaders who resort to such statements for publicity. He emphasized the NDA government’s commitment to inclusive development under the motto “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.” Additionally, JD(U) MP Sanjay Kumar Jha defended North Indian migrant workers, emphasizing their significant contributions to local economies wherever they go. He also criticized the historical treatment of people from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh by the Congress and its allies.
Bihar Minister Deepak Prakash and Samajwadi Party MP Awadhesh Prasad also condemned the minister’s remarks, advocating for unity and denouncing divisive statements. Prasad highlighted the diverse yet unified nature of India, emphasizing the crucial role North India plays in the nation’s progress. Meanwhile, Congress MP Tariq Anwar suggested that the minister did not intend to offend anyone, attributing North Indian migration to economic necessity and the need for livelihood opportunities.
