Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) chief MK Stalin on Sunday took strong objection to Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) leader and Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay over his comments on state finances, saying funds are available, only heart and administrative ability are required to serve the people.
The former chief minister’s comments come in the backdrop of Vijay, who accused the previous DMK regime of “emptying the state’s funds” and leaving it $10 crore as debt, soon after he was sworn in as chief minister by Governor Rajendra Arlikar.
Extending his heartfelt congratulations to Vijay on assuming office as Prime Minister, Stalin said that he welcomed the series of proclamations signed by Vijay immediately after assuming office.
While Stalin asked Vijay not to say that the government had no money initially, he said: “All this is available. What we need is the heart to give to the people and administrative capacity.”
The 73-year-old leader noted that his party has implemented myriad public welfare schemes despite facing various challenges including Covid-19, floods as well and the bias shown by the BJP-led Center on releasing funds to Tamil Nadu.
“In your first speech, you made an accusation that the previous government had left behind debts $10 crore and wiped the treasury clean. He said Tamil Nadu’s debt level was within permissible limits.
Pointing out that the DMK government had explained the financial situation during the interim budget presented in February 2026, Stalin asked: “Do you know that? Only then did you give a lot of promises to the people. Do not deceive and distract the people who voted for you.”
Stalin added: “You came to power saying that you will only provide what is practically possible, such as promises. And now you are entering into the administration of the government.”
“I think you, like us, will certainly learn the nuances of how to fulfill promises made to the people very soon. I also expect the same with the people.” He pointed out.
He once again expressed his congratulations on the continuation of the Tamil Nadu journey under the Vijay administration.
The DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance lost the April 23 elections held for 234 assembly constituencies and won 73 seats to become the opposition party in the state assembly.
Stalin lost to TVK leader VS Babu in his Kolathur constituency by 8,795 votes.
