PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss addressed reporters at Coimbatore airport, criticizing the Tamil Nadu government on issues including electricity tariff hikes, water management, and law enforcement. He warned of potential industrial decline and called for immediate action.
Coimbatore: PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss held a press conference at Coimbatore airport, where he voiced strong criticism against the Tamil Nadu government on various issues affecting the state.
Ramadoss highlighted the plight of the Kongu region, known for its industrial prowess. He stated, "The Kongu region is a major contributor to Tamil Nadu's industrial wealth. However, due to electricity tariff hikes, over 50,000 small and micro industries in this area have shut down." He pointed out that the state government has increased electricity rates three times in the past 23 months, affecting all sections of society.
The PMK leader warned, "If this situation continues, it will become impossible to conduct business in Tamil Nadu." He reminded that the DMK had promised in their election manifesto to collect electricity charges only once a month, which has not been implemented. Ramadoss claimed that monthly billing could reduce electricity charges by 15 to 20 percent.
Addressing water management issues, Ramadoss criticized the government's lack of planning in utilizing the Cauvery water. He mentioned several pending projects, including the Dharmapuri Cauvery Surplus Water Scheme, Athikadavu Avinashi Scheme, Nallaru Pambaru Scheme, and Cauvery Gundaru Scheme, accusing the government of not prioritizing them.
Ramadoss also alleged large-scale mineral looting in the Coimbatore region, accusing officials and politicians of being complicit in exchange for bribes. He highlighted infrastructural issues in Coimbatore, stating that 80% of the roads in the city are in poor condition.
The PMK leader raised concerns about drug trafficking in Tamil Nadu, particularly the widespread availability of ganja. He alleged that those arrested for drug-related offenses are released within 15 days and suggested police complicity in the illegal trade of ganja and illicit liquor.
Ramadoss also touched upon the issue of caste census, urging the Tamil Nadu government to make an immediate announcement. He warned, "There's a possibility that the 69% reservation in Tamil Nadu could be nullified. When this case comes up in the Supreme Court, the judges will question the basis for this 69% reservation."
Throughout his address, Ramadoss called for investigations into various issues, including the expenses incurred in extinguishing the Vellalore dump yard fire and the circumstances surrounding the Coimbatore Mayor's resignation.