DMK chief and former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Sunday strongly responded to Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay’s remarks alleging that the State government was burdened with nearly Rs 10 lakh crore debt.
The sharp political exchange came shortly after Vijay’s emotional address following his swearing-in ceremony in Chennai, where the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) leader claimed that the previous DMK government had “emptied the State coffers” and left behind massive debt.
Reacting to the statement, Stalin defended the financial management of the DMK government and asserted that Tamil Nadu’s debt remained within permissible limits. Do not immediately start saying that the government has no money. The money is there. What is needed is the willingness to spend it for the people and the ability to govern,” Stalin wrote in a post on X.
The former Chief Minister highlighted the welfare measures implemented during the DMK regime despite challenges such as the Covid-19 pandemic, floods and alleged lack of support from the Union government. For five years, we implemented countless welfare schemes for the people despite grappling with numerous issues like COVID and floods,” Stalin stated.
He also questioned Vijay’s remarks on the State’s financial position, pointing out that Tamil Nadu’s finances had already been detailed during the State Budget session earlier this year. You came to power promising only practical assurances. Now that you have entered administration, you too will soon understand the complexities of governance and fulfilling promises,” Stalin said.
Vijay, in his first speech as Chief Minister, had announced that his government may release a white paper on Tamil Nadu’s financial condition to ensure transparency. He also assured the public that his administration would not misuse taxpayer money.
The newly formed TVK-led coalition government has already announced several welfare initiatives, including 200 units of free electricity for domestic consumers, a women’s safety force and anti-drug task forces across the State.
According to estimates cited in the political debate, Tamil Nadu’s debt has increased from around Rs 2.8 lakh crore in 2016-17 to over Rs 10 lakh crore projected for 2026-27. Vijay’s government, which secured support from Congress, CPI, CPI(M), VCK and IUML, is expected to face a floor test in the Tamil Nadu Assembly before May 13.
