Chennai: Hours after chief minister C Joseph Vijay said Tamil Nadu's coffers were empty, former chief minister M K Stalin countered, stating the state's debt was within permissible limits.
"TN does have the money. What's needed is the will to give it to the people and the ability to govern," Stalin said in a statement issued in response to Vijay's charge that the previous DMK government had left the state with a debt of 10 lakh crore and an empty treasury.
While wishing Vijay on assuming charge as chief minister, Stalin asked him not to start the blame game. "Don't start saying right away that the government has no money. The state's debt is within permissible limits," he said. Vijay had earlier stated he would assess the fiscal situation and release a white paper.
Stalin highlighted that the previous DMK government implemented welfare schemes despite various struggles. "For five years, we implemented countless welfare schemes for the people despite grappling with numerous issues such as Covid-19 and floods, as well as the neglect from the BJP-led Union government," Stalin said.
The former chief minister noted that his government had explained the financial position of the state in the last budget itself. "Only after that you gave various promises to the people. Don't deceive those who voted for you and try to divert the issue," Stalin added.
He expressed hope that Vijay would soon learn the nuances of administration. "You came to power by saying that you would only give promises that are feasible. Now you are just stepping into government administration. I believe that, just like us, you too will surely soon learn the nuances of finance and how to fulfil the promises made to the people. Along with the people who voted for you, I too expect the same," Stalin said.
This exchange marks a significant political development in Tamil Nadu, highlighting the ongoing debate over the state's fiscal health and the responsibilities of the new administration.
