TN CM Stalin seeks 50 pc share in central taxes at NITI Aayog meeting

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Saturday (May 24) made a strong pitch for a 50% share in central taxes for states during the NITI Aayog meeting in Delhi, underscoring the financial strain caused by the current devolution of only 33.16% despite the 15th Finance Commission’s recommendation of 41%.

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Stalin’s demands also included a dedicated urban transformation mission and a river rejuvenation project akin to the Clean Ganga initiative, aiming to secure additional funds for Tamil Nadu’s development. For the first time, MK Stalin attended the NITI Aayog meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, where he raised these critical issues. The prime minister was seen engaging warmly with Stalin, holding his hand and smiling during their interaction, as captured in visual media from the event.

‘Unbiased cooperation’

In his speech, Stalin emphasised the need for unbiased cooperation from the Union government to help states like Tamil Nadu meet their development goals.

He specifically addressed the delay in releasing funds under the ‘PM-SHRI’ scheme, stating, “The delay in releasing funds under the ‘PM-SHRI’ scheme due to some states not signing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has affected Tamil Nadu. Approximately Rs 2,200 crore in Union funds for 2024-2025 have been withheld, impacting education for children in government schools and those under the Right to Education Act. I urge you to release these funds without imposing unilateral conditions.”

Urban rejuvenation

Stalin also called for a special urban transformation mission for Tamil Nadu, similar to the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT 2.0), noting that Tamil Nadu, as India’s most urbanised state, requires enhanced funding to upgrade its cities.

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Additionally, he proposed a major project to clean and protect Tamil Nadu’s rivers, such as the Cauvery, Vaigai, and Thamirabarani, suggesting a model similar to the Clean Ganga initiative. He argued that such a project would preserve these vital water bodies while balancing national unity with regional pride, and recommended using English names for the rivers to ensure broader national recognition.

Fight over federal issues

When the DMK has consistently fought with the Centre over various federal issues, including the three-language policy, the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, delimitation concerns, fund allotments, and the alleged misuse of the Governor’s office, Stalin’s attendance at the NITI Aayog meeting surprised many.

Having skipped the last three such meetings, his presence stood out, especially since other non-BJP chief ministers like Mamata Banerjee and Siddaramaiah chose to abstain. Stalin had previously called for non-BJP chief ministers to unite and resist what he termed “central chauvinism,” yet during the event, he maintained proximity with Prime Minister Modi, engaging in photo opportunities and casual chats, which appeared to contrast with his earlier stance.

AIADMK slams Stalin

The CM’s Delhi visit and demands have sparked a range of political reactions. AIADMK leader D Jayakumar slammed Stalin’s visit, alleging, “He has gone to Delhi seeking help to safeguard his son. Why did he skip the last three years, and now he’s going only out of fear of action over corruption? Am sure he did not go for funds.”

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When reporters asked about the AIADMK’s criticism of the chief minister's visit, Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin responded defiantly, saying, “DMK will never be scared of ED or Modi; we will continue our fight for state rights.”

NTK leader Seeman has suspected Stalin’s motives, stating, “Not even BJP-ruled CMs have held rallies to support the Indian army over Operation Sindoor, but MK Stalin, the first CM in India, led a march to foster good relations with the BJP. He skipped the last three meetings and is now attending, which suggests he wants to forge a closer friendship with the BJP.”

DMK allies defend CM

In contrast, MDMK’s Vaiko defended Stalin, asserting, “Stalin never fears any raid,” while VCK leader Thirumavalavan offered a pragmatic perspective, saying, “The state cannot run without the support of the Centre. Political protest is one thing, but skipping such meetings is a big loss for Tamil Nadu, so he may have attended this time.”

BJP state president Nainar Nagendran voiced disappointment over Stalin’s absence from previous meetings, saying, “I was sad that Stalin skipped the last three meetings. The Tamil Nadu chief minister should maintain good ties and secure more funds and projects from the Centre.”