Chennai: The TVK government, led by C Joseph Vijay, on Thursday accused the previous DMK administration of fiscal mismanagement and failing to take effective measures against the drug culture in Tamil Nadu. The government blamed the widespread availability of narcotics for a breakdown of law and order.
Governor's Maiden Address Highlights Financial Woes
In his inaugural address to the assembly, Governor R V Arlekar stated that the government would meticulously document every rupee spent and publish a report detailing the Union government's “discriminatory approach” in financial devolution to Tamil Nadu. The assembly will pass a resolution demanding the state's share of tax devolution, and a special legal committee will be formed to pursue the matter up to the Supreme Court.
“Over the past few years, Tamil Nadu’s financial position has faced a very severe deterioration. Owing to revenue leakages and systematic corruption in the revenue and tax-collecting departments, tax revenue has declined from 5.93% of GSDP in the financial year 2021-22 to 5.45% in 2025-26,” the governor said.
Revenue Enhancement and Debt Reduction Plans
Governor Arlekar cited an additional privilege fee levied recently on liquor manufacturers, expected to generate ₹1,000 crore annually. He said the government would prevent leakages in revenue, government work, and expenditure, and restore the state’s finances onto a sound path. “All the promises announced by the government will be fulfilled one by one in the years to come by streamlining the state’s financial position,” he added.
In the last five years, Tamil Nadu’s debt has doubled to approximately ₹10 lakh crore, which is 28.3% of the state’s GSDP. This implies a per-capita debt burden of more than ₹1 lakh. Additionally, around 23% of the state’s total revenue receipts are used only to pay interest on this debt.
Drug-Free Tamil Nadu: Special Prevention Force
On the issue of drugs, the governor announced that the government aims to make Tamil Nadu drug-free by establishing a special prevention force in every district and taking steps to eradicate trafficking. The government cited the closure of 717 retail liquor outlets near places of worship and educational institutions. It said it would frame and enforce stringent rules to eliminate illicit liquor, stop illegal sales, and tighten regulation of the liquor sector. Through these measures, the government claimed it could curb excise and distribution malpractices and restore the state’s socio-economic environment.
Strict Action Against Crimes
The government also stated it would take swift and stringent action against sexual violence and anti-social activities to secure maximum punishment under law, emphasizing public peace, rule of law, and safety for women and children. It would curb crimes against women “with an iron hand” and create a safe environment for women and children.
