Vaiko Accuses Modi Government of Betraying Tamil Nadu's Interests

MDMK founder Vaiko claims the Modi-led Union Government is betraying the interests of Tamils and Tamil Nadu. He criticizes the Centre's stance on the Mekedatu dam issue, while Union Minister Jitendra Singh defends the budget allocations for Tamil Nadu, highlighting significant infrastructure investments.

Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MDMK) founder Vaiko on Wednesday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Union Government of betraying the interests of Tamils and Tamil Nadu. Vaiko asserted, "Union government headed by Narendra Modi is betraying the interest of Tamils and Tamil Nadu particularly. Modi government is against the Tamils, Sri Lankan Tamils, and democracy. In the next elections, they (BJP) cannot come; they will be thrown out by the people of Tamil Nadu."

Previously, Vaiko had criticized the central government for favoring Karnataka in the Mekedatu dam controversy. He warned that any attempt by Karnataka to build the dam would threaten India's unity, accusing the central government of partiality towards Karnataka. "If the Karnataka government makes any attempt to build the Mekedatu Dam, then India's unity will become a question mark. The central government is partial to supporting Karnataka," Vaiko told ANI.

Vaiko also expressed confidence that all political parties in Tamil Nadu oppose the construction of the Mekedatu dam. He stated, "We won't allow it." Last July, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) organized statewide protests against the Centre, alleging neglect of Tamil Nadu in the Union Budget 2024.

Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin criticized the BJP government over the Union Budget, calling it a "vengeful act" against states and people who boycotted the BJP. However, Union Minister Jitendra Singh defended the budget, emphasizing its benefits for Tamil Nadu. Singh highlighted the significant investments, including among the highest railway budget allocations amounting to Rs 6,362 crores, introduction of six Vande Bharat trains, and development of 77 model Amrit Rail stations, underscoring the central government's commitment to the state's transportation infrastructure.

(With inputs from agencies.)