Tamil Nadu Assembly clashes over TVK's car purchase for legislators

The Tamil Nadu Assembly erupted in a sharp exchange Friday after the ruling TVK's decision to purchase cars for legislators drew criticism from DMK MLA G.V. Markandayan, who argued the government should prioritize welfare promises over vehicles for lawmakers.

Ministers defend car purchase, cite constituency visits

Law Minister C.T.R. Nirmal Kumar defended the move, saying the vehicles would enable MLAs to travel across their constituencies, and claimed villagers had complained that Markandayan himself had never visited them. Health Minister K.G. Arun Raj countered that Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay had begun delivering on campaign pledges despite completing only 100 days in office.

"Today, we are giving approvals to building construction without taking money/square foot. How are you saying there is no change?" Arun Raj said, questioning why the previous DMK government had planned a memorial for late Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi at the Marina despite knowing the state's finances were strained.

Formula 4 race becomes fresh flashpoint

The debate took an unexpected turn when Revenue Minister K.A. Sengottaiyan raised the DMK's organization of a Formula 4 night race in August or September 2024. DMK deputy floor leader K.N. Nehru defended the event, noting that then-Sports Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin had organized multiple sporting competitions including chess, hockey, and car racing.

Udhayanidhi Stalin responded directly, stating that former Chief Minister M.K. Stalin had approved providing cars only to those MLAs who needed them, adding that DMK legislators did not require vehicles. On the racing event, he emphasized it was an international competition and Asia's first night race.

"At the time, many went to court saying it was not safe. But the court allowed it. You are not belittling us, you are belittling motor sport racers," Udhayanidhi said.

The confrontation underscores the continuing political rivalry between the DMK and TVK, with the opposition targeting the new government's spending priorities while the ruling party defends administrative decisions and past sporting initiatives.

Source: The Hindu