Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu on Tuesday used the presentation of Tamil Nadu’s interim budget to criticise the Government of India, accusing it of delaying the release of funds and denying key projects to the state. Presenting the interim budget in the Assembly, Thennarasu alleged that the Centre had withheld or delayed statutory dues and grants, placing additional fiscal pressure on Tamil Nadu.

Thennarasu argued that such delays affect the state’s capacity to implement welfare schemes, infrastructure projects and development programmes efficiently. The minister said that despite these challenges, the state government had continued to prioritise social sector spending and public welfare.

He further claimed that several proposals and infrastructure demands submitted by Tamil Nadu had either not received timely approval or were overlooked in central allocations. According to the minister, this included requests related to major infrastructure, disaster relief support and sector-specific funding. He asserted that the state had consistently met its obligations but had not received what it considers its rightful share from the Centre.

Also Read: Rahul Gandhi Wins Relief as Karnataka HC Dismisses BJP Defamation Case

The interim budget outlined allocations for key sectors including education, healthcare, rural development and social welfare, while emphasising fiscal prudence. Thennarasu maintained that Tamil Nadu’s economic indicators remain strong despite what he described as financial constraints imposed by the Union government. He said the state would continue to pursue growth while safeguarding welfare commitments.

The remarks are likely to intensify the ongoing political exchanges between the ruling party in Tamil Nadu and the Centre. The Union government has previously maintained that fund allocations are made according to established norms and Finance Commission recommendations. Further debate on the issue is expected as discussions on the state’s full budget proceed in the coming months.

Also Read: Two Students Injured After High-speed Motorcycle Crashes Into Electric Pole In Karnataka