Tamil Nadu Opposition Leader and AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) on Monday launched a sharp attack on the ruling DMK government, alleging that corruption to the tune of ₹45 lakh crore has taken place in the state since it assumed office.
He claimed the alleged irregularities span multiple departments and reflect what he termed as “systemic misgovernance” under the present regime.
Addressing the media, EPS also criticised the DMK’s decision to distribute ₹3,000 as a Pongal cash gift, alleging that the move was driven purely by fear of the upcoming Assembly elections.
He said the announcement, made just ahead of the harvest festival, was intended to influence voters rather than address long-term welfare needs. “If the government was truly concerned about the people, such measures would not be announced only when elections are around the corner,” he said.
Palaniswami further argued that repeated cash handouts and freebies could strain the state’s finances and compromise development priorities. Reiterating the AIADMK’s opposition to what he described as election-oriented populism, EPS urged voters to critically assess the DMK’s record on governance, corruption, and economic management.
His remarks come amid intensifying political activity in Tamil Nadu, with major parties stepping up their campaigns ahead of the crucial polls.