The Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) Salem urban and district secretary and Salem West MLA, R. Arul, has accused state Ministers of ignoring grievances and rampant corruption. In a letter addressed to 200 MLAs, excluding Ministers and the Chief Minister, Arul expressed frustration over the lack of response from most Ministers to the petitions submitted by MLAs.
Arul claimed that only four Ministers showed any concern for the issues raised by MLAs. He noted that, despite submitting approximately 1,000 petitions on behalf of his constituents, only nine issues were addressed, with the rest seemingly disregarded. He emphasized the importance of addressing the needs of the people to ensure MLAs can face their constituents again after their term ends.
Speaking to The Hindu, Arul alleged widespread corruption within the government, stating that even some officials treat MLAs with disrespect, acting as if they hold ministerial power. He called on the Chief Minister to instruct all Ministers to take MLAs’ grievances seriously, asserting his readiness to substantiate his claims.
Arul’s letter detailed his experiences and frustrations, highlighting that many Ministers only offer verbal respect without taking substantive action on welfare requests. He pointed out that in previous DMK and AIADMK regimes, Ministers were more responsive to MLAs’ suggestions, often providing updates or explanations if actions could not be taken. He alleged that ministers were asking for 12-18% commission.
He also mentioned that officials often refuse to meet with MLAs, citing a recent incident where a high-ranking official declined his request for a photograph. Arul urged fellow MLAs to collectively or individually bring these issues to the attention of the Chief Minister, stressing the importance of ensuring Ministers and officials respect and address the concerns raised by elected representatives.
#18PercentStalin #Corruption #DMK pic.twitter.com/PweRnpmQQz
— Dr.SG Suryah (@SuryahSG) June 15, 2024
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