CHENNAI: Chennai Central MP Dayanidhi Maran on Friday responded to social media claims questioning his utilisation of MPLADS funds, stating that the allegations stem from misleading and inaccurate data reflected on the official MPLADS portal.
The claims were made in a post by an X user, YeThikKarkeDikhao, which cited figures from the MPLADS dashboard to allege low expenditure and zero completed works during Maran's tenure in the 17th and 18th Lok Sabha. The post pointed to ‘payment success’ entries on the portal while asserting that there was no publicly visible evidence of completed works, raising questions about project execution.
In response, DMK MP wrote on X: "Fake narratives don’t become facts by repetition. The BJP and its fake news ecosystem need to understand this. I am formally writing to the Union Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, flagging errors and misleading presentations on the MPLADS portal that leads to such fake news."
In the letter, he said the portal frequently displays incorrect, incomplete, or outdated information on projects recommended by MPs and the corresponding financial details. He also noted that such discrepancies mislead the public and are increasingly used to circulate false narratives, particularly during election periods. He maintained that details of MPLADS works in Chennai Central are available with the district administration and that updates on projects are regularly shared through his social media platforms.
Fake narratives don’t become facts by repetition. The BJP and its fake news ecosystem need to understand this
Dayanidhi Maran, DMK MP
The MP warned that similar claims raised by Edappadi K Palaniswami earlier were withdrawn following legal action. He demanded a retraction and apology from the current user, warning of consequences if the claims were not withdrawn.
The X user, however, responded that citizens have a right to seek clarity on the utilisation of public funds and questioned the absence of publicly verifiable evidence of completed works.
Under the MPLADS scheme, MPs recommend local development works, while execution and record-keeping are handled by district authorities.