Chennai Corp meet: DMK, BJP, AIADMK unite to slam ruling TVK govt's civic performance

BJP says DMK rule was better than that of TVK, with better implementation of civic projects in Chennai, while Congress praises the TVK government for local governance

Published - July 29, 2026 08:14 pm IST - CHENNAI

Councillors from the DMK, BJP, and AIADMK on Wednesday displayed an unusual burst of camaraderie, as they claimed that the DMK rule was marked by better civic infrastructure development in the city compared to initiatives taken by the TVK government.

At the Chennai Corporation Council meeting on Wednesday, BJP councillor Uma Anandan said the previous DMK government was better in the delivery of services and civic infrastructure development.

"There has been no progress in civic infrastructure projects during the TVK rule," said Ms. Anandan.

DMK councillor Viswanathan said the previous AIADMK government used to listen to the grievances of opposition councillors and resolve civic issues.

"However, the officials under the TVK government are scared, and are reluctant to resolve civic issues flagged by DMK councillors. Work has not been implemented to resolve civic issues raised by DMK councillors," he said.

DMK councillors also complained about:

• Disruption of water supply in several parts of the city
• A rise in mosquito density in various parts of the city

Chennai Mayor R. Priya said:

"The DMK, after coming to power in 2021, did not disrupt the delivery of services to the people under popular welfare schemes of the AIADMK, including Amma Canteens. The DMK government did not remove photos of former Chief Minister Jayalalithaa from Amma Canteens. But the TVK government has been changing the names of welfare schemes of the DMK government. The people have been observing how the TVK government has been providing services to the people."

Deputy Mayor Mu. Magesh Kumaar said the DMK has not opposed the renaming of schemes after leaders such as K. Kamaraj by the TVK.

DMK councillor Parithi Elamsurithi said they would start a campaign against inadequate funds for implementation of civic infrastructure projects under the Councillors Ward Development Scheme.

Congress floor leader Samuel Thiraviam said there were adequate funds for implementation of civic infrastructure projects in the city.

"The BJP has joined hands with the DMK and is spreading disinformation to deliberately cause public harm. I thank the Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay for initiatives towards welfare of residents of Chennai," he said.