A heated political clash unfolded in the Tamil Nadu Assembly during a debate on the Governor’s address, with the ruling DMK and opposition AIADMK exchanging accusations regarding the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS). The controversy arose when AIADMK MLA Thangamani raised concerns about a potential discontinuation of the rural employment initiative, alleging misleading promises made by the government.
Tharamani accused the Centre of weakening the program and claimed that the DMK government was complicit in this effort. He highlighted reductions in funding share and the removal of Mahatma Gandhi’s name from the scheme. In response, Rural Development Minister I. Periyasamy criticized the BJP-led Union government for systematically undermining the scheme’s effectiveness.
The debate escalated as accusations flew between the parties, with the Leader of the Opposition accusing the DMK of failing to fulfill its pledge to extend employment under the scheme to 150 days. Chief Minister M. K. Stalin emphasized the need for the Union government’s involvement in implementing any changes to the scheme, citing the limitations of the state government’s authority in this matter.
Minister Periyasamy challenged the AIADMK’s stance on the funding cuts, questioning their parliamentary actions in response. The exchange intensified with allegations of obstruction and counterclaims regarding past promises and actions. The session witnessed a tense atmosphere as both sides defended their positions and criticized each other’s approaches.
