EPS Slams Tamil Nadu's Crop Loan Waiver as 'Scientific Scam'

AIADMK General Secretary Edapaddi K Palaniswami has issued a sharp critique of a recent decision by the Tamil Nadu government to waive crop loans for farmers, describing the move as a 'scientific scam'. Through social media, the former Chief Minister accused the government of attempting to distract from its other failings, such as purported lapses in law and order.

Palaniswami slammed what he characterized as a 'puppet government', alleging that the loan waiver announcement was an insincere political tactic designed to take the spotlight off various governmental shortcomings. Recalling his tenure, Palaniswami noted that he facilitated the waiving of Rs 12,110 crore worth of loans, benefiting over 16 lakh farmers, emphasizing that this was the proper way to support the agricultural community.

The controversy arose after current Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay reportedly promised a crop loan waiver up to Rs 50,000 for marginal farmers, while offering Rs 5,000 relief to larger farmers with loans from cooperative banks. Palaniswami criticized this plan as insufficient compared to his earlier efforts and implored the current administration to repair what he perceives as missteps.

(With inputs from agencies.)