Madurai, Aug 22:
BJP senior leader Tamilisai Soundararajan on Friday criticised the Tamil Nadu government’s decision to provide cars to MLAs, arguing that the move could amount to an unnecessary expenditure of public money when many legislators already own vehicles.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a private meeting in Madurai, Tamilisai questioned the rationale behind the TVK government’s decision to provide cars to legislators.
“What kind of approach is this?” she asked, questioning the decision to spend public money on vehicles for MLAs who already have cars.
Tamilisai said the government should instead ensure that public funds are used for priorities that directly benefit people.
Her remarks come amid a wider debate over the State government’s decision to provide vehicles and a monthly allowance to MLAs. The BJP leader maintained that expenditure on legislators’ facilities should be carefully assessed, particularly when government resources are required for public welfare and development.
Tamilisai also responded to criticism of Chief Minister Vijay over his position on the delimitation issue.
Vijay had initially demanded a freeze on the existing allocation of Lok Sabha seats but subsequently called for a fair process that would ensure Tamil Nadu’s interests are protected, following his meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Asked whether this amounted to a U-turn, Tamilisai disagreed.
“What is wrong with his statement that the correct proportion should be followed?” she asked.
She urged political parties not to unnecessarily politicise the delimitation issue and said the process should ensure fairness.
Tamilisai also stressed the importance of women’s reservation, saying that providing reservation for women was the appropriate way to ensure greater opportunities for them.
She pointed out that Amit Shah had assured that Tamil Nadu’s share would not be reduced in any manner.
Tamilisai also raised concerns over preparations for the September 17 consecration of the Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai.
She urged the State government to expedite the preparatory works and closely monitor the progress of various projects linked to the event.
According to her, several works did not appear to have been completed fully, making it necessary for the government to step up supervision and ensure that all arrangements are completed on time.
Her comments covered three key issues — public expenditure on MLA facilities, Tamil Nadu’s position on delimitation and preparations for the Meenakshi temple consecration — as the BJP stepped up its scrutiny of the newly formed TVK government.