Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK president M.K. Stalin recently criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s statement regarding substantial savings for Indian citizens. The Prime Minister had asserted that various GST reforms and Income Tax relief measures would result in a total saving of ₹2.5 lakh crore for the populace.
Stalin argued that these measures were precisely what the Opposition had been demanding for a long time. He suggested that if such reforms had been implemented eight years prior, families across the nation would have accumulated savings worth many more lakh crores by now.
The Chief Minister further highlighted a crucial aspect: 50% of this proclaimed financial relief has, in fact, been borne by the State governments. Stalin expressed his concern that the Union government has not only failed to acknowledge this significant contribution but has also neglected to appreciate the states’ efforts.
He then accused the Union BJP government of withholding legitimate funds from states, citing Tamil Nadu’s experience of being denied Samagra Shiksha funds merely for refusing to accept Hindi imposition. Stalin questioned when this perceived injustice would finally cease.
In a powerful concluding remark, the Chief Minister declared that India cannot truly prosper by penalizing states that actively defend their rights and champion their people. He urged for respect towards federalism, the prompt release of due funds, and ensuring that citizens receive the benefits that are rightfully theirs.