The AIADMK’s general secretary, Edappadi K. Palaniswami, recently voiced strong disapproval of the DMK government, asserting that they have tragically transformed what should be a joyful harvest season into a period of deep sorrow for farmers in the fertile Cauvery delta region.
Palaniswami underscored that it is the fundamental responsibility of any government to safeguard the livelihoods and produce of its farmers, arguing that the current administration should not attempt to deflect blame. Despite his repeated warnings about the escalating challenges, he claims the government failed to act, leaving countless farmers to witness their valuable harvest ruined. During a recent visit to Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, and Nagapattinam districts, Mr. Palaniswami observed vast quantities of sprouted paddy piled up at Direct Procurement Centres (DPCs). He highlighted the critical lack of storage space and a complete absence of urgency in the procurement process.
He further lambasted the government for issuing what he called ‘contradictory statements’ regarding the actual extent of crop damage. Palaniswami urgently demanded that the government immediately acquire all available paddy stock, conduct a thorough assessment of the crop losses, and provide fair compensation to all affected farmers.