TNML demands promised Rs 2,000 to PDS cardholders

Addressing reporters at the Secretariat, where he submitted a petition to Palaniswami in this regard, TNML founding-president VMS Mustafa said, “The Chief Minister made an official announcement on February 11 that the State government would distribute Rs 2,000 to all the families. However, after the announcement was made the election dates were announced. Hence, the government could not distribute the dole. Now, the time is right for it to fulfil its promise.”

Following the positive public response to the special Pongal assistance, when it provided Rs 1,000 per family, the State government had announced a special one-time assistance of Rs 2,000 per family.

The announcement was met with severe criticism from Opposition parties, who claimed that the ruling AIADMK was trying to give cash to bribe voters.

As it turned out, Palaniswami’s assurance was not fulfilled due to the election. Following the conclusion of the polls, there have been demands from a few quarters seeking the distribution of Rs 2,000 to people.

“The AIADMK leaders during their election campaign promised to give Rs 2,000 after the election. With people now reeling under a severe shortage of water that amount would be useful for them,” said Mustafa.