Tamil Nadu Criticizes Union Budget for Ignoring State Needs

The Tamil Nadu government and opposition AIADMK have criticized the Union Budget for ignoring the state's needs and favoring BJP-ruled states. Both parties expressed discontent over the lack of new projects for Tamil Nadu. Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu and other leaders highlighted the disappointment and alleged bias in fund allocation.

The Tamil Nadu government and the opposition AIADMK criticized the Union Budget on Tuesday, alleging it ignored the state while favoring BJP-ruled regions.

State Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu said the central government has consistently dismissed Chief Minister M K Stalin's requests on numerous issues. 'It is true that Tamil Nadu has been betrayed. Although the Centre has generously allocated funds to several states, it has not addressed our Chief Minister's demands,' Thennarasu stated.

Reacting to the budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Thennarasu claimed the budget disregarded Tamil Nadu's demands. Opposition AIADMK labeled the budget 'a big disappointment,' asserting it serves BJP allies rather than equitable economic development. AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami accused the BJP government of harboring a 'grudge' against Tamil Nadu while criticizing the DMK and its allies for inaction. Palaniswami noted that despite 39 DMK MPs in Parliament, no projects were secured for the state.

BJP ally Ramadas also expressed disappointment, while TNCC President K Selvaperunthagai and MDMK chief Vaiko criticized the budget for lacking growth potential and ignoring farmers' needs. CPI state secretary R Mutharasan labeled the budget as a political move to retain power, citing a lack of substantial achievements.

(With inputs from agencies.)