CHENNAI: CPI state secretary M Veerapandian on Friday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi must answer a series of questions on Tamil Nadu’s development, disaster relief, language policy and fiscal federalism during his visit to the State on January 23 (today evening) ahead of the Assembly elections.
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Referring to the Prime Minister’s frequent visits to Tamil Nadu, Veerapandian, in a statement, said that despite more than 40 visits, people had neither trusted nor accepted his speeches, alleging that the Union government had consistently betrayed the State’s development and public welfare. He said people were questioning what the Prime Minister intended to speak about amid these grievances.
He questioned claims that Rs 14,200 crore had been allocated for 25 projects, including Chennai Metro Rail Phase II, and asked for factual details to be made public. He also criticised the continued refusal to approve metro rail projects in Madurai and Coimbatore.
On disaster relief, he alleged that after Cyclone Michaung, the State repeatedly sought Rs 37,907 crore for recovery but received only Rs 276 crore. He added that despite seeking Rs 6,675 crore for damages caused by Cyclone Fengal, the Union government had so far remained silent.
Highlighting alleged fiscal discrimination, Veerapandian said that for every rupee Tamil Nadu contributed as tax revenue, it received only 29 paise in return, while Uttar Pradesh received Rs 2.73 for every rupee contributed.
He also accused the BJP-led Union government of attempting to impose Hindi through the three-language formula under the National Education Policy and of withholding Rs 2,152 crore in education funds by linking them to the PM SHRI scheme, despite Tamil Nadu following a two-language policy.
Citing the 2025 Economic Survey, which praised Tamil Nadu for attracting foreign investment and progress in footwear manufacturing, he alleged that Governor R.N. Ravi had indulged in false propaganda contrary to these findings, with the Prime Minister’s support.
Veerapandian also criticised plans to replace MGNREGA, warning it would deprive 1.33 crore rural workers in the State of their legal right to employment.
The CPI urged the Prime Minister to address these issues at the Madurantakam meeting, warning of a strong public response otherwise.