Namakkal: Tamilaga Vettrik Kazhagam (TVK) MLA C S Dilip has sparked controversy after refusing to accept petitions from two elderly women seeking old age pensions during his visit to Azaghu Nagar in ward 34 recently. The women approached Dilip with folded hands on Friday, but were stunned when he returned their petitions and asked them to come back next week after the inauguration of his MLA office.
"The office is situated very close to your area. So, you come and give me the petitions after inaugurating the MLA office in a week's time," he reportedly told them before handing the petitions back. Residents condemned the MLA's conduct and questioned his insensitivity and arrogance.
Residents Express Outrage
"How could an elected representative turn away poor women who came with genuine needs? This is shameful," said R Murugan, a local shopkeeper. "Old age pension is not a luxury, it is a matter of survival. To send them away empty-handed is cruel," said K Meenakshi, another resident.
"We voted for him to listen to our problems, not to dismiss them with excuses," said S Rajesh, a TVK supporter. "If he cannot accept petitions in person, what is the point of being an MLA?" Another person said the refusal to accept petitions amounted to a betrayal of democratic responsibility and reflected a growing disconnect between politicians and the people they represented.
Broader Implications
"This is not about a petition. It is about respect for the poor and elderly. He failed them today," said M Arumugam, a retired teacher. The incident has sparked a wider debate about the accessibility and accountability of elected representatives.
MLA's Apology
When contacted, MLA Dilip apologised for his act. "I don't have an office due to which I told them to bring the petitions after inaugurating the office and nothing intentional," he explained. However, many residents remain unconvinced, arguing that an MLA should be prepared to address public grievances regardless of office availability.
