Chennai, February 18: The Tamil Nadu BJP launched a scathing attack on the state government, labeling the 2026-27 interim budget as a ‘mirage.’ The party accused the budget of neglecting public welfare and further plunging Tamil Nadu into debt.
BJP spokesperson A.N.S. Prasad criticized the budget presented by Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu under Chief Minister M.K. Stalin’s leadership. He stated that it lacks solid and planned developmental initiatives in crucial sectors such as finance, economy, industry, and public welfare.
Prasad alleged that while the government repeatedly claims double-digit economic growth, ordinary citizens have seen no benefits. He argued that this growth primarily favors leaders within the governance system, party officials, and elected representatives, leaving a significant portion of society struggling.
The spokesperson noted that the government has failed to respond to the ongoing demands and protests from teachers, doctors, engineers, farmers, the disabled, nurses, road workers, and Anganwadi staff over the past five years.
He also raised concerns about the lack of detailed information regarding the North Chennai Development Project and the clarity of allocations for cleaning the Cooum River in Chennai.
Additionally, the government was accused of not making any concrete announcements to remove encroachments from water bodies, despite multiple court observations on the matter.
Regarding the state’s rising debt burden, Prasad questioned the status of the expert committee allegedly formed to enhance revenue and ensure financial stability. He claimed that the state is heading toward an unstable debt path and that the Chief Minister needs to provide clear answers.
The BJP described the budget as ‘anti-people,’ asserting that the DMK government has failed to fulfill promises made during the last assembly elections, disappointing various segments of society.
