CHENNAI: Leader of Opposition Edappadi K Palaniswami launched a sharp attack on the DMK-led government under Chief Minister MK Stalin, calling it "incompetent" and responsible for pushing the State into lawlessness and a deep financial crisis over the past four years.
In a statement, Palaniswami claimed the State has become a hub for drug trafficking and violent crimes, including serial killings and murders. He pointed to a lack of coordination among departments and administrative inefficiency, which he said has delayed infrastructure and development projects.
The AIADMK, as the principal opposition, has consistently raised concerns over law and order, Palaniswami noted, claiming that there has been a rise in crimes such as caste conflicts, sexual assaults, and attacks on elderly individuals living alone.
On the financial front, he alleged that the State's debt has ballooned and that Tamil Nadu has become a "primary borrower." He said the DMK failed to secure central funding, including the Metro Rail expansion, which has stalled key projects.
He slammed the government’s handling of stormwater drain projects. Despite tall claims by the Chief Minister and senior ministers KN Nehru and P K Sekarbabu, Chennai Mayor Priya said that 90% of the work was completed. However, Chennai experienced severe inundation during the 2021 and 2022 rains, he said.
Palaniswami, citing various media reports, charged the DMK with poll rigging and intimidating officials during urban and local body elections.