Stalin's Boycott of NITI Aayog Meeting Sparks Political Clash

Tamil Nadu CM M.K. Stalin announces a boycott of the NITI Aayog meeting over Union Budget 2024, prompting Union Minister L. Murugan to criticize his decision as undermining democracy and harming Tamil Nadu's interests. The move aligns with Congress' call to boycott the meeting, citing budget discrimination.

On Wednesday, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin declared he would boycott the upcoming NITI Aayog meeting in response to the Union Budget 2024. Union Minister of State L. Murugan condemned the move, accusing Stalin of undermining democracy and failing to serve the Tamil people.

Speaking to ANI, Murugan stated, 'I strongly condemn this. The INDI Alliance habitually avoids crucial forums. If Stalin doesn't attend, how will he provide justice to the Tamil people?'

Murugan added, 'Stalin often speaks of federalism and democracy, yet his actions contradict his words. By not attending the NITI Aayog meeting, he harms Tamil Nadu's interests.' His critique comes after Stalin criticized the BJP for neglecting Tamil Nadu in the budget, leading to his boycott decision.

Congress General Secretary K.C. Venugopal also slammed the Union Budget as discriminatory. Announcing that INC Chief Ministers would boycott the July 27 NITI Aayog meeting, Venugopal said, 'The Union Budget is against federalism and fairness. In protest, INC CMs will not attend the scheduled meeting.'