Chennai, March 2 (IANS). BJP has criticized CM MK Stalin for not welcoming Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Tamil Nadu. The Tamil Nadu BJP described it as going against the state’s long-standing political traditions. Tamil Nadu BJP spokesperson ANS Prasad said in a statement that the Prime Minister unveiled development projects worth Rs 4,400 crore in Madurai.
Tamil Nadu BJP spokesperson ANS Prasad said that despite party differences, it has been important in the political culture of Tamil Nadu to maintain a sense of courtesy on the arrival of the Prime Minister. He alleged that the Chief Minister’s absence at the airport showed ‘disrespect for the constitutional post’ and that a person holding a position like the CM should rise above partisan considerations.
Prasad said political differences are natural in a democracy but respecting the post of Prime Minister is part of our federal structure and political etiquette. He claimed that former chief ministers, irrespective of party, have followed this tradition during visits of national leaders to the state.
The DMK has not given any official reaction to Prasad’s comments. However, the ruling party has earlier also maintained that the Chief Minister’s programs during official tours are often decided due to scheduling and administrative reasons. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of several infrastructure projects aimed at promoting connectivity and urban development in Tamil Nadu.
The Prime Minister also announced a fourth railway line between Chennai Beach and Egmore to decongest the suburban rail network. Additionally, 24/7 FM transmitters will be started in Kumbakonam, Yercaud and Vellore to strengthen the public broadcasting services.
BJP leaders emphasized that Tamil Nadu has been allocated adequate funds for infrastructure and welfare programs in the last decade. BJP leaders claimed that a strong Center and states can give further impetus to development. Let us tell you that with the assembly elections approaching, the exchanges regarding protocol, governance and development are expected to intensify in the changing political scenario of Tamil Nadu.
–IANS
SD/Piyush
