DMK Rejects Vijay’s MLA Car Scheme
The Tamil Nadu government has clarified that its proposed vehicle scheme for legislators is intended only for MLAs who do not already own a car, after the opposition DMK rejected Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay’s offer. Leader of Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin said all 59 DMK legislators would decline the government vehicles.
DMK Rejects Vijay’s MLA Vehicle Scheme
Udhayanidhi questioned the expenditure at a time when the TVK government has repeatedly highlighted Tamil Nadu’s debt position.
He said MLAs’ election affidavits and financial circumstances should be examined before vehicles are provided, arguing that legislators who already own cars do not require government-funded vehicles.
The DMK announced that none of its 59 MLAs would apply for the scheme, saying the decision would help reduce the financial burden on the state.
Tamil Nadu Government Clarifies Free Car Policy
Minister Adhav Arjuna responded that the government’s intention was to treat all legislators equally while ensuring representatives from modest financial backgrounds have adequate transport.
He clarified that MLAs who already own vehicles would not apply for government cars.
The government argued that some first-time legislators and MLAs from smaller parties may lack the resources required for frequent constituency travel.
MLAs Offered ₹75,000 Monthly Vehicle Allowance
Vijay had earlier announced government vehicles for MLAs to support constituency-related work and improve their ability to meet residents and monitor public services.
The scheme also provides ₹75,000 per month towards expenses including fuel, driver salaries and vehicle maintenance.
The clarification has narrowed the scope of the proposal, but the dispute has developed into a wider political debate over MLA benefits, government spending and Tamil Nadu’s financial position.
