TVK and Congress Slam DMK Over Delimitation Stance in Chennai

Congress leaders and TVK ministers on Sunday criticized the DMK in Chennai over its acceptance of 'fair delimitation', alleging that the ruling party is covertly supporting the BJP and betraying the people of Tamil Nadu to escape corruption cases.

Addressing the media, Tamil Nadu Congress Committee leader B. Manick Tagore rejected DMK deputy general secretary Kanimozhi's stance on 'fair delimitation', stating that Tamil Nadu must insist on 'no delimitation'. Tagore warned that delimitation is a conspiracy by the BJP and RSS to bring down the political power of southern states. He stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah would not offer fair terms to Tamil Nadu.

Tagore explained that even if a uniform 50 per cent increase in Members of Parliament is allowed across states, Tamil Nadu’s parliamentary seats would rise to 59, whereas Uttar Pradesh would jump to 120 seats. This would increase the gap between the two states from 41 seats to 61 seats, permanently diluting South India's legislative representation. Congress MP Praveen Chakravarthy added that supporting the delimitation Bill, overtly or covertly, amounts to a betrayal of Tamil Nadu.

TVK Law Minister C.T.R. Nirmal Kumar stated in Madurai that the DMK plans to walk out during voting on the delimitation bill, providing indirect assistance to the central government. He accused DMK president M.K. Stalin of acting cordially with the BJP to protect his family from corruption cases. Health Minister K.G. Arunraj and Education Minister Rajmohan echoed these charges, stating that former DMK ministers face corruption charges and questioning why the DMK boycotted an MPs' meeting on the subject.

Responding to the charges, DMK spokesperson Kanimozhi Somu stated that there are no permanent friends or foes in politics, adding that the DMK is firm on getting more seats for Tamil Nadu and will accept any benefit for the state from anywhere. Meanwhile, CPI-M MP Su. Venkatesan warned that once a delimitation commission is formed, it will not need to answer to Parliament, calling the 50 per cent increase an eyewash. VCK leader Thol. Thirumavalavan and CPI-M leaders also commented on the need for all-party consultations.