Rs 2,000 relief insufficient for a day’s expenses: Premalatha

DMDK General Secretary Premalatha strongly criticized the Tamil Nadu government for its inadequate relief measures following the severe rains and floods that have devastated several districts, including Villupuram, Tiruvannamalai, Cuddalore, Kallakurichi, Dharmapuri, and Krishnagiri. Speaking to reporters at the Thoothukudi airport, she highlighted the struggles of affected citizens and the government’s failure to address their needs effectively.

Premalatha condemned Chief Minister M.K. Stalin’s recent remarks, where he accused opposition parties of engaging in “jealous criticism and unnecessary publicity.” She stated that there is no need for the opposition to seek publicity over such a grave issue, as public frustration against the government is already evident. She pointed out that citizens have shown their anger by throwing accusations against ministers like Ponmudi, tearing down DMK banners, and organizing widespread protests.

Premalatha accused the DMK government of being disconnected from the realities faced by the people. She criticized the administration for its lack of preemptive measures and long-term planning to mitigate the effects of natural disasters. The government’s claims of prosperity under its rule, she said, are far removed from the harsh reality faced by ordinary citizens, who are now forced to cope with the aftermath of the floods.

Highlighting the inadequacy of the ₹2,000 relief announced by the state government, Premalatha said the amount is insufficient even for a single day’s expenses. She pointed out that many flood-affected families have lost all their belongings and are left with nothing except their lives. Offering ₹2,000 as compensation, she argued, is akin to election-time handouts and will not help people recover from their immense losses.

Premalatha called for more substantial relief measures, urging the government to provide ₹10,000 for each flood-affected family. She also demanded compensation for farmers who have suffered extensive damage to their agricultural lands, suggesting amounts ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹1,00,000 per acre. Such measures, she stated, are essential to help citizens and farmers rebuild their lives and livelihoods after the disaster.

Through her remarks, Premalatha emphasized the need for meaningful action and urged the government to take the plight of its citizens seriously.