Salem Municipal Corporation Unveils Deficit Budget for 2026-27 Financial Year
The Salem Municipal Corporation officially presented its budget for the upcoming 2026-27 financial year on Thursday, revealing a significant deficit of ₹35.85 crore. Mayor A Ramachandran delivered the budget details, outlining a total expected expenditure of ₹802.26 crore, which substantially exceeds the projected revenue and capital inflow of ₹776.41 crore. This financial shortfall has raised concerns about the corporation's fiscal management and future planning.
Political Protests and Walkout Over Water Supply Privatization
In a dramatic turn of events, AIADMK members staged a walkout during the budget presentation, vehemently condemning the corporation's financial report. The primary point of contention was the decision to privatize water supply projects, a move that has faced strong opposition from various quarters. AIADMK councillors, dressed in black attire as a symbol of protest, labeled the budget as anti-people and a mere 'paper flower'—a term implying superficiality without substance. To draw attention to their cause, they wore flowers in their ears, creating a visually striking protest within the council chamber.
The walkout was specifically triggered by the DMK-led corporation's approval of water supply projects worth ₹4,315 crore to a private firm. AIADMK councillors argued that this privatization initiative disregards public welfare and could lead to increased costs and reduced accessibility for residents. The protest highlights the ongoing political tensions and policy disagreements between the ruling DMK and opposition AIADMK in Salem.
Symbolic Demonstrations and Council Commotion
Adding to the day's theatrics, VCK councillor Imayavaramban from ward 44 arrived at the council with a plastic pipe wrapped around his body, carrying a banner that urged the government to scrap the privatization of water projects. His statement that the project was originally introduced during the previous AIADMK regime caused a brief commotion, with AIADMK councillor Selvaraj accusing Imayavaramban of misleading the council. This exchange underscored the complex political dynamics and blame-shifting often seen in municipal governance.
Meanwhile, V Deivalingam, councillor from ward 9, shifted focus to a different civic issue by addressing the stray dog problem prevalent in corporation areas. He controversially suggested that the stray dogs should be captured and exported to China, a proposal that has sparked debate about animal welfare and practical solutions for urban management. This comment added another layer to the diverse range of concerns raised during the budget session, reflecting the multifaceted challenges faced by the Salem Municipal Corporation.
The budget presentation and subsequent protests underscore the critical financial and political hurdles confronting Salem's local administration. With a deficit budget and heated debates over privatization, the corporation must navigate these issues while striving to meet the needs of its citizens in the coming financial year.
