AIADMK staged protests across Tamil Nadu against the recent electricity tariff hike. MLA S.P. Velumani led the demonstration in Pollachi, claiming the hike is forcing industries to relocate to other states.
Coimbatore: The AIADMK staged a protest across Tamil Nadu on Thursday against the recent power tariff hike implemented by the DMK government. In Coimbatore, MLA SP Velumani led the demonstration at Thiruvalluvar Thidal in Pollachi, condemning the increase in electricity rates and demanding its withdrawal.
During the protest, AIADMK members raised slogans against the state government, criticizing the power tariff hike and urging the administration to ensure an uninterrupted supply of essential commodities like palm oil and pulses in fair price shops. The demonstration saw participation from various AIADMK functionaries, including MLAs S. Damodaran (Kinathukadavu), Amul Kandasami (Valparai), and Kandasamy (Sulur).
Speaking to reporters after the protest, SP Velumani stated, "During the AIADMK rule, even amid the COVID-19 pandemic and revenue losses, we did not increase power tariffs or property taxes. However, in just three years of DMK rule, electricity rates have been hiked continuously."
Velumani further alleged that major industries in Coimbatore district and across Tamil Nadu are now considering relocating to other states due to the increased power costs. He demanded that the Tamil Nadu government revoke the power tariff hike immediately.
The former minister also criticized the quality and quantity of essential items provided through fair price shops. "Low-quality palm oil, sugar, and other products are being distributed in reduced quantities. The government should ensure full supply of all commodities," he added.
The AIADMK's protest highlights the growing discontent among various political parties and citizens regarding the recent power tariff increase in Tamil Nadu, which they claim is adversely affecting industries, poor, and middle-class families alike.