DMK Forest Minister Ponmudi was widely criticised for angrily silencing a man from cyclone-hit Villupuram, who expressed distress over the lack of shelter and ration cards, while the minister was on a video call with Chief Minister Stalin.
DMK Forest Minister Ponmudi attempted to reassure Chief Minister Stalin through a video call that there were no issues in cyclone-hit Villupuram and that everything was under control. Just then, an unexpected individual voiced distress, revealing that they had no home, shelter, or ration cards. The person then appealed directly to the Chief Minister. Ponmudi, reacting angrily, immediately told the man to “keep quiet,” which sparked controversy and widespread criticism.
The heavy rains from Cyclone Fengal wreaked havoc in Villupuram, with Marakkanam being the worst-hit area. The Narikuravar people, residing in slums, demanded assistance. Eventually, they were relocated to safer places and accommodated in relief camps. After the rain subsided, Minister Ponmudi visited the affected areas. During this time, Chief Minister Stalin made a video call to assess the damage. Ponmudi suggested speaking with the Narikuravar nearby, and when a woman appeared to downplay the situation, a man spoke up, saying, “We don’t have homes, and we don’t even have land to build one, Thalaivare!” which prompted Ponmudi to turn the phone away from him.
Despite being urged to remain silent by the DMK cadres, the man continued speaking, saying, “What to do after eating, there is no home to stay. Give us place to stay. Half of them have ration card and others don’t have. We are asking this for four generation but you are given for the haves. We are just lamenting our concerns” leading the minister to sternly tell him, “Just keep quiet.”
The man then walked away, shouting. The video of this incident has gone viral on social media, drawing harsh criticism. Netizens have expressed strong disapproval of Ponmudi for silencing citizens from expressing their concerns.
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