CHENNAI: CPM state secretary P Shanmugam on Saturday urged the TN government to introduce a special scheme to ensure that all resettled families in Chennai receive housing with adequate living space.
Speaking to reporters after paying homage to Dr BR Ambedkar on his death anniversary, he said that the constitutional values upheld by Ambedkar were under threat and stressed the need for all secular forces to unite to safeguard them.
“The principles of secularism, socialism and democracy are being undermined by the BJP-led government at the Centre,” he added. “The monthly food allowance of Rs 1,500 for students staying in government hostels is insufficient to meet rising costs. The State government must increase the allowance.”
He pointed out that many Scheduled Caste families across the State continued to live without basic facilities while funds earmarked for SCs and STs were often underutilised and returned unspent. “Authorities must ensure that schemes are planned early and executed throughout the year so that full allocations are used,” stated Shanmugam.
Expressing concern over the condition of families relocated from central Chennai to Kannagi Nagar, he averred: “Families are living in cramped spaces unfit for dignified living.”