DMK MP Slams Centre's Fund Withholding as 'Blackmail'

DMK MP Kalanidhi Veeraswamy accused the Centre of withholding funds to force Tamil Nadu to adopt the NEP's three-language policy. He criticized the language imposition and highlighted economic grievances, calling the GST imposition 'tax terrorism' and arguing that electoral bonds facilitate political misuse.

In a heated debate over the Finance Bill 2025, DMK MP Kalanidhi Veeraswamy accused the Central government of 'blackmailing' Tamil Nadu by withholding funds. The Chennai North MP claimed the stalled release of Rs 2,152 crore was contingent upon adopting the NEP's three-language formula.

Veeraswamy criticized the Centre's language policy, which he claimed disproportionately affected southern states. He argued that Tamil Nadu's two-language policy has not hindered its economic growth, questioning the rationale behind the imposition.

Addressing broader economic issues, Veeraswamy likened GST policies to 'tax terrorism' and accused the government of exploiting electoral bonds for financial gain. He challenged the 'Viksit Bharat' vision as misleading, citing current per capita income figures.

(With inputs from agencies.)