Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his recent visit to Tamil Nadu, hit out at opposition parties for repeatedly accusing the Centre of neglecting the state in terms of financial support. Addressing a public rally, PM Modi asserted that the Centre has not only fulfilled its obligations but has also significantly increased the financial allocation to Tamil Nadu over the years.
“Some people here keep crying that the Centre is not giving enough funds. The truth is just the opposite. Under our government, Tamil Nadu has received more funds than ever before,” said the Prime Minister, receiving thunderous applause from the crowd.
Modi’s comments come amid ongoing criticism from certain regional leaders who have accused the Union government of financial discrimination against southern states, particularly Tamil Nadu. In recent months, these accusations have been a central theme in political discourse ahead of the upcoming general elections.
Without naming specific parties, the Prime Minister accused them of spreading misinformation for political gain. “There are some political groups who thrive on creating a narrative of injustice and victimhood. They want to divide the country by saying North vs South, Centre vs State. But the data tells a different story,” he said.
Modi also highlighted several key infrastructure projects and welfare schemes in Tamil Nadu that have received substantial support from the Central government. He cited examples from sectors like highways, railways, healthcare, and digital infrastructure, emphasizing the Centre’s commitment to the state’s development.
“In the last ten years, we have seen a transformation in Tamil Nadu’s connectivity, industry, and social welfare sectors—all with support from Delhi,” he added.
The Prime Minister’s remarks are seen as a strategic response to the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK)-led government, which has been vocal about its dissatisfaction with the tax devolution formula and the alleged shortfall in central grants.
Political analysts believe that Modi’s speech in Tamil Nadu is part of a larger outreach to the southern electorate, a region where the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is keen to expand its influence. Despite limited electoral success in the state so far, the party has been steadily increasing its visibility through strategic alliances and high-profile visits.
As the election season gathers momentum, PM Modi’s visit and strong rhetoric could signal a more aggressive push to counter regional narratives and project the BJP’s development agenda in the south.
