‘Give Us Our Due’: Stalin accuses centre of tax injustice, hits back at BJP remarks

Launching a sharp political offensive ahead of the Assembly elections, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin on Sunday accused the BJP-led Centre of systematically denying Tamil Nadu its rightful share of tax revenues , while strongly rebutting allegations that the state is heading toward financial distress.

Addressing campaign rallies in Thirumangalam near Madurai and later in Virudhunagar, Stalin said the Union government was “consistently depriving” the state of funds despite its significant contribution to national revenues . “After taking our money, you ask us where it is going; is this fair? It is like pinching the baby and rocking the cradle,” he remarked, accusing the Centre of fiscal injustice .

The remarks came in response to Union Minister Piyush Goyal , who had warned that “Tamil Nadu is going to go bankrupt” if the DMK continues in power. The BJP has repeatedly questioned the state’s financial management, pointing to rising debt levels and extensive welfare spending as causes for concern.

Dismissing the claim, Stalin termed it a “lack of understanding” of Tamil Nadu’s economic model, asserting that welfare schemes are designed to ensure inclusive growth and direct benefit to citizens. He further argued that if Tamil Nadu received equitable financial devolution, its debt burden could be cleared swiftly.

Challenging the Centre, Stalin demanded a transparent comparison of tax contribution and returns, particularly with BJP-ruled states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, highlighting a long-standing debate over r esource allocation between northern and southern states.

Drawing an ideological contrast, Stalin defended the “Dravidian Model” of governance , describing it as rooted in social justice and communal harmony, while accusing the NDA of promoting divisive politics. He warned that such an approach could disrupt social cohesion in regions like Madurai.

Promoting the DMK’s manifesto, Stalin called it the “superstar of the 2026 polls” , claiming it resonates across all sections. Key promises include the ‘Illatharasi’ scheme offering ₹8,000 coupons for household appliances and a proposal to double the ‘Maghalir Urimai Thogai’ assistance to ₹2,000 per month .

The Chief Minister also targeted AIADMK chief Edappadi K Palaniswami , accusing him of running a campaign based on “slander” and “betrayal” , and rejecting allegations that the DMK had failed government employees.

Framing the election as a contest between the “Tamil Nadu Team” and the “Delhi Team” , Stalin urged voters to support his alliance to ensure continuity in governance. He pledged that a renewed mandate would enable the government to “break its own records” under the Dravidian Model 2.0 . The Tamil Nadu Assembly elections are scheduled for April 23, with campaigning intensifying across the state.