Chennai: Former minister Ma Subramanian and deputy mayor Mahesh Kumar have called upon Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) councillors to prioritize addressing public grievances. During a meeting attended by several DMK councillors, zonal chairpersons, standing committee heads, and a few former MLAs, the leaders emphasized the need for councillors to actively engage with constituents and propose projects using their ward development funds.
Key Directives to Councillors
The former minister and deputy mayor instructed councillors to take people's issues directly to the GCC commissioner for resolution. Mahesh Kumar stated, "We want our councillors to hit the field, be seen attending people's issues, and take them to the commissioner for redress. We told them to move on from the defeat and reminded them that GCC is a separate mini-government-like structure with its own funds and powers. Many women councillors are new, and the briefing helped them too."
Ma Subramanian, who previously served as health minister, advised councillors to address infrastructure needs such as constructing bus stands, toilets, anganwadis, and fixing sewage overflows using their ward development funds. The councillors have also been instructed to coordinate amicably with TVK MLAs and allow them to participate in zonal committee meetings.
Coordination with MLAs
Mahesh Kumar elaborated on the role of MLAs, stating, "MLAs don't have any signing authority, but as public representatives, it's their right to participate even in GCC meetings. They can voice their opinions and give us a letter if they have issues. The councillors should receive it and act on it."
Focus on 2027 Local Body Elections
The councillors have been urged to work diligently with an eye on the 2027 local body elections. DMK councillor from Thiruvottiyur, Kavi Ganesan, shared his proactive approach: "I'm following up on drain and road work in my area. I have asked local officials to fix issues." He has already begun inspections to ensure progress.
The GCC council, led by Mayor R Priya, did not convene in May. Officials have indicated that the next meeting is expected to be held by the end of June.
