In a rare show of unity, councillors from across the political spectrum in Chennai’s Greater Corporation Council turned their frustration toward the state government on Friday, demanding the immediate release of long-overdue ward development funds. The atmosphere crackled with shared exasperation as representatives from typically opposing parties stood together, decrying stalled projects and worsening civic conditions.

Key facts

  • DMK floor leader moved a resolution seeking ₹60 crore per ward for development
  • Councillors from Congress, AIADMK, BJP, CPI, CPI(M), MDMK, VCK, and MMK supported the demand
  • Funds have been withheld for at least five months according to speakers

A chorus of complaints

From flooded streets to crumbling roads, the councillors’ grievances painted a picture of a city grinding to a halt. BJP councillor Uma Anandan, dressed in black as a mark of protest, voiced what many felt: "We are not asking for cars for ourselves, but for funds to implement projects." Her plea underscored the practical paralysis—flood mitigation works stuck half-finished, stormwater drains awaiting connection, basic infrastructure frozen without money.

Threats and ultimatums

The frustration boiled over into blunt warnings. DMK councillor A. Raja Anbazhagan suggested mass resignations might be necessary if funds weren’t released before the next meeting. Valasaravakkam ward committee chairperson V. Rajan floated the idea of a hunger strike, questioning whether the current administration was "democratic or bureaucratic." Even Congress leader M. Samuel Diraviam promised to escalate the matter directly to Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay.

“After working for all these months, we are unable to complete projects in the last leg due to the lack of funds.” — BJP councillor Uma Anandan

Political tensions simmer

Standing Committee Chairperson N. Chitararasu didn’t mince words, accusing the state government of withholding funds out of fear that the DMK might gain ground in upcoming local body elections. Meanwhile, Deputy Mayor M. Magesh Kumaar pointed to broader financial strains, noting that even foundation stone projects initiated by former Chief Minister M.K. Stalin remained stalled. Mayor R. Priya confirmed the council would formally register its dissatisfaction with the state, though she stressed that only immediate fund releases could get projects back on track within six to seven months.