COIMBATORE: Former Electricity Minister V Senthilbalaji on Thursday accused the TVK government of raising the issue of hard disk theft to divert public attention from the ongoing power outages across the State.

Speaking to the media after inaugurating his constituency office in Coimbatore South, Balaji criticised the government's handling of the power sector and law-and-order situation. “Chennai and several other parts of the State had been experiencing frequent power cuts, causing inconvenience to the public. Even 20 days after assuming office, the government has not conducted any comprehensive review meetings to assess the power supply situation. Unlike other departments, the electricity department requires continuous monitoring and immediate corrective action,” he said.

Asserting that an uninterrupted power supply was ensured during the previous DMK regime, even during peak electricity demand, Balaji urged the government to identify the reasons behind the current power disruptions and address them on a war footing. “The present administration lacks administrative efficiency, and ministers do not appear to have a complete understanding of their respective portfolios,” he alleged.

On the issue of the disappearance of hard disks, Balaji said those responsible should be identified and appropriate action taken. “Instead, the issue is being highlighted in a manner to shift focus away from the power outage problem,” he said.

Balaji also accused the government of failing to fulfil electoral promises made to farmers, including loan waivers, and claimed that it was losing public goodwill. “No government can seek a grace period when it comes to maintaining law and order. Ensuring public safety is the primary responsibility of any administration from day one,” he added.