Palaniswami Demands Accountability from Stalin on Petitions

Edappadi K. Palaniswami, the general secretary of the AIADMK, called on Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and Commercial Taxes Minister P. Moorthy to provide clarity on the status of the ‘Ungaludan Stalin’ petitions. These petitions, submitted by the public, were promised resolution within 45 days. Palaniswami made these remarks during a speech in Madurai on October 3, 2023, as part of his extensive state-wide tour.

Addressing audiences in multiple locations including Melur, Y. Othakadai, and K. Pudur, Palaniswami criticized the ruling DMK government for allegedly failing to deliver on its promises. He described the situation surrounding the petitions as indicative of a broader pattern of unfulfilled commitments, stating, “Those who believed him [CM Stalin] should think of the sorry state of ‘Ungaludan Stalin’ petitions floating in the Vaigai River at Thirupuvanam and hanging in tea shops across the State.”

Palaniswami also raised concerns about environmental issues, specifically questioning the nod given to a hydrocarbon project in Ramanathapuram district. He noted that despite Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu claiming ignorance of the project and promising its cancellation, significant machinery and pipes were being transported to the site. He accused the DMK of repeatedly betraying farmers, referencing past projects that had been halted under AIADMK governance to protect agricultural interests.

The AIADMK leader further criticized Stalin’s engagements with foreign investors, suggesting that these efforts had not yielded tangible results for the state. “He releases videos of him strolling around the places he visits, but can he release what all investments he has brought to the State?” Palaniswami questioned. He contrasted this with the AIADMK’s record, asserting that his party had attracted investments worth ₹60,000 crore even during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In his address, Palaniswami highlighted what he viewed as broken promises from the current administration, including the delayed implementation of the ‘Magalir Urimai Thogai’ scheme, which has yet to generate expected revenue. He warned that the financial burden of borrowed funds for this scheme would eventually fall on the populace in the form of increased taxes.

Palaniswami alleged that the DMK government has focused on misleading the public and extracting funds through various means. He pointed out that the Minister for Commercial Taxes is reportedly receiving a commission of 10% on all registrations in the state and claimed that officials in the 582 registration offices are shuffled annually to facilitate corruption.

Despite challenges faced by the AIADMK alliance, Palaniswami expressed confidence in his political future, challenging the DMK and Stalin to prevent him from achieving victory in the upcoming 2026 Assembly elections. His remarks reflect a broader criticism of the DMK’s governance and a call for accountability regarding the promises made to the electorate.