Tamil Nadu CM Stalin Defends Participation in NITI Aayog Meeting
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has sparked controversy by participating in a meeting of the National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog) on May 24. The meeting was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with the Chief Ministers of various states. The opposition parties in the state have accused Stalin of meeting PM Modi to escape the investigation into the alleged TASMAC liquor scam by the Enforcement Directorate (ED).
However, Stalin has clarified that he participated in the meeting to discuss India’s growth plans and to emphasize the importance of protecting state rights. In a statement, Stalin said that though state rights are primary for the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), the party will not compromise on national interests.
The meeting was aimed at discussing the country’s growth plans, including the 15th Finance Commission’s recommendations, the National Health Mission, and the education sector. Stalin pointed out that the meeting was an opportunity to discuss the country’s overall development and the role of states in achieving it.
The opposition parties, including the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), have been critical of Stalin’s participation in the meeting. They have accused him of meeting PM Modi to escape the ED’s investigation into the TASMAC liquor scam. The ED has been probing the alleged irregularities in the sale of liquor through TASMAC outlets, which is a state-owned corporation.
Stalin has denied the allegations and said that he participated in the meeting to discuss national issues and to emphasize the importance of protecting state rights. He pointed out that the DMK has always been committed to protecting the rights of the state and its people, but it will not compromise on national interests.
In recent years, there have been several instances where the central government has attempted to encroach upon the rights of states. The DMK has been vocal in its opposition to such attempts and has always emphasized the importance of protecting state autonomy.
Stalin’s participation in the NITI Aayog meeting has sparked a debate on the role of states in national development. While some have criticized him for meeting PM Modi, others have praised him for taking a proactive approach to national issues.
The DMK has always been a strong advocate for federalism and has emphasized the importance of protecting state rights. Stalin’s participation in the meeting is seen as a continuation of this tradition.
The meeting was also attended by other Chief Ministers, including those from the BJP-ruled states. Stalin’s participation in the meeting is seen as an attempt to build bridges with the central government and to emphasize the importance of cooperation between states and the Centre.
The controversy surrounding Stalin’s participation in the meeting is likely to continue in the coming days. However, it is clear that the DMK will not compromise on its commitment to protecting state rights and will continue to play a proactive role in national issues.
