Chennai: Finance Minister Mariyavilson told the Tamil Nadu Assembly that the government released its white paper on the state’s finances before the first sitting of the House, as promised by Chief Minister Vijay.
During the debate, AIADMK MLA Sampathkumar alleged that the white paper was issued in violation of Assembly convention, arguing it should have been presented in the House after the Assembly schedule was announced. He questioned the need for an “urgent” release.
Responding, Mariyavilson said the Chief Minister had pledged at the time of assuming office to provide transparent, corruption-free governance and to publish a white paper on the government’s financial position. He said the document was released ahead of the first Assembly session to ensure the public could know the details.
AIADMK leader and former Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami said his party was not opposed to releasing a white paper, but asked why it was not announced in the House after the session dates were declared, citing legislative practice.
In a separate exchange, Sampathkumar raised the issue of an election promise on a monthly assistance of Rs 2,500 for women, saying it had not been implemented and was not mentioned in the Governor’s address. Minister Aadhav Arjuna replied that answers on manifesto-related issues would be given when the budget and grant demands are presented.
