TKS Elangovan, a prominent DMK leader, criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s statements about the development of Tamil Nadu. Elangovan challenged the Centre’s claims regarding the state’s infrastructure and welfare initiatives, demanding a detailed account of the government’s investments.
He said, “Anyone can claim to have implemented numerous schemes, but I demand the government provide a detailed list of these schemes, including the allocated funds for each one.”
Disparity in Fund Allocation for Infrastructure
Elangovan raised concerns about the unequal distribution of funds across states. He pointed to the ₹150 crore allocated for a railway station in Uttar Pradesh compared to only ₹9 crore for Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu.
“While Rameswaram receives attention due to the Ram Temple, Tamil Nadu has many other important temples. It’s unfair to claim significant investments here. If Modi claims that 1 crore houses have been built, he should show the proof,” Elangovan stated.
No New Road Projects Since 2014, Says Elangovan
Elangovan also criticized Modi’s claims regarding road development. He stated that the major road infrastructure projects in Tamil Nadu were initiated during Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s tenure, not after 2014. “Since 2014, no new road schemes have been started,” he said, urging the Prime Minister to provide a breakdown of the promised railway and road investments.
PM Modi Defends Central Government’s Infrastructure Efforts in Tamil Nadu
Earlier, Prime Minister Modi defended the Centre’s efforts to develop Tamil Nadu’s infrastructure. Addressing a gathering after inaugurating the New Pamban Bridge in Ramanathapuram, he reiterated that the development of Tamil Nadu is a top priority for his government.
“The state’s rail budget has increased more than sevenfold over the past decade. Despite this, some individuals continue to complain without justification. Before 2014, the allocation was just ₹900 crore. This year, the Tamil Nadu rail budget has exceeded ₹6000 crore,” Modi explained.
Modi Highlights Government Investment in Railway Stations and Roads
Modi also emphasized the modernization of 77 railway stations, including Rameswaram, and the construction of 4000 kilometers of roads under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana. These efforts, he said, demonstrate the government’s commitment to improving Tamil Nadu’s infrastructure.
Inauguration of the New Pamban Bridge and Enhanced Connectivity
Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the New Pamban Bridge, India’s first vertical lift sea bridge, which will improve connectivity between Rameswaram and Chennai. The bridge will enhance both trade and tourism in Tamil Nadu, as well as create new job opportunities for local youth.
India’s Economic Growth Fueled by Infrastructure Investments
Modi also attributed India’s economic growth to the rapid development of modern infrastructure. “The size of India’s economy has doubled, thanks to our focus on infrastructure,” Modi said. He highlighted that the Central Government had increased the budget for railways, roads, airports, ports, and other essential infrastructure by nearly six times since 2014.
Conclusion: Ongoing Debate Over Development and Resource Allocation
As TKS Elangovan continues to challenge the government’s development claims, the political debate over Tamil Nadu’s infrastructure remains intense. Both the DMK and BJP are seeking public support, making this a key issue in the upcoming elections.
