Edappadi Palaniswami’s Statement – Alliance, Mekedatu, and Tamil Nadu’s Financial Needs
AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami has stated that decisions regarding political alliances are usually made only as elections approach. He also mentioned that alliances may change depending on the prevailing political situation.
Speaking to reporters in New Delhi, Palaniswami said that he had met Union Home Minister Amit Shah to discuss important issues related to Tamil Nadu and urged the central government to release the pending financial aid for the state immediately.
Financial Assistance for Tamil Nadu – Request to the Central Government
Edappadi Palaniswami emphasized the urgent need for the central government to release the funds due to Tamil Nadu. He pointed out that the state requires financial support to implement its development projects without hindrance.
Mekedatu Dam – A Threat to Tamil Nadu?
Palaniswami strongly opposed the construction of the Mekedatu Dam by the Karnataka government and urged the central government not to support the project. He stressed that Tamil Nadu farmers are already struggling with water shortages and that any move to approve the Mekedatu project would further affect the state’s water security.
Godavari-Cauvery River Linking – A Priority
To ensure a long-term solution to Tamil Nadu’s water crisis, Palaniswami requested the central government to expedite the Godavari-Cauvery river linking project. He asserted that this project would be crucial in addressing Tamil Nadu’s water needs and ensuring agricultural sustainability.
TASMAC Corruption – Need for Investigation
Highlighting concerns about corruption in TASMAC (Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation) liquor outlets, Palaniswami called for a thorough investigation into the matter. He urged the authorities to take strict legal action against those involved and emphasized the need for transparency in governance.
Alliance & Ideology – Clarification by Palaniswami
When asked about AIADMK’s stance on alliances, Palaniswami clarified that alliances are formed based on electoral strategies, while ideology remains independent. He stated, “With one year remaining for the assembly elections, political alliances will be decided only closer to the polls.”
He also questioned whether the parties currently in the DMK alliance would remain with them in the future. He hinted that the evolving political landscape could bring unexpected changes and that AIADMK would take decisions based on its interests at the appropriate time.
