Union Minister comes down heavily on DMK govt

In a sharp critique of the ruling DMK government, Union Minister of State L Murugan expressed concerns about the alleged adverse impact of their policies on industries in Tamil Nadu. Murugan, who visited the residence of late Comrade N Sankaraiah in Chromepet, Chennai, accused the DMK government of intentionally hampering industrial growth through substantial increases in electricity charges. According to Murugan, the DMK government’s decision to raise electricity charges by 40 to 50 times has led to the closure of numerous industries in the state, resulting in significant job losses. He emphasized that this hike in electricity tariffs has dealt a severe blow to industries already facing challenges and managing their operations amidst various difficulties. The former Tamil Nadu BJP president highlighted the personal impact of the electricity tariff hike, revealing that his own household’s electricity bill surged from Rs 3,000 to Rs 10,000. Murugan argued that even ordinary households are grappling with substantial increases, causing shock among the poor and middle-class residents. In contrast, Murugan praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, asserting that despite global challenges faced by industries, those operating in India under Modi’s regime are doing business without significant problems. He commended the Central government’s initiatives, including allocating Rs 3 lakh crore to MSMEs during the Covid-19 period, emphasizing their commitment to fostering industrial growth. Taking a dig at the DMK government’s approach, Murugan criticized what he deemed as unnecessary actions in the Assembly, such as praising the ruling party and attaching its label to pre-existing schemes. He specifically mentioned the Breakfast scheme initiated by the then Governor Banwarilal Purohit, accusing the DMK government of merely putting its sticker on the plan and presenting it as its own. Murugan called for an end to such practices and urged th