Sun Apr 06 13:38:00 UTC 2025: ## Modi Inaugurates Pamban Bridge, Spars with Stalin Over Tamil Nadu Funding

**RAMESWARAM, TAMIL NADU** – Prime Minister Narendra Modi today inaugurated the renovated Pamban bridge in Tamil Nadu, using the occasion to deflect criticism from Chief Minister M.K. Stalin regarding alleged central government underfunding and cultural interference. While Stalin skipped the event to inaugurate a medical college and reiterated concerns over parliamentary representation following delimitation, Modi highlighted a significant increase in central funding for Tamil Nadu’s rail projects.

Modi stated that annual allocations for rail projects in the state have risen from ₹900 crore before 2014 to over ₹6000 crore currently, a nearly sevenfold increase. He further cited advancements in road infrastructure under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, claiming the construction of approximately 4,000 km of roads in Tamil Nadu since 2014. The modernization of 77 railway stations, including Rameswaram’s, was also mentioned.

The Prime Minister dismissed the Opposition’s concerns as unwarranted, characterizing their complaints as “crying without reason.” He also challenged the Tamil Nadu government to introduce medical education in Tamil, noting the prevalence of English in official state communications.

Stalin, meanwhile, continued his criticism of the central government, citing concerns over the delimitation process and the three-language policy, alleging that the Centre is attempting to curb the influence of southern states. He demanded a firm commitment from Modi to protect Tamil Nadu’s current proportion of MPs in Parliament, suggesting a constitutional amendment to guarantee this. His concerns stem from fears that the delimitation process will reduce Tamil Nadu’s parliamentary representation.

The event marks a significant political moment, highlighting the ongoing tension between the BJP and the ruling DMK in Tamil Nadu, a state where the BJP has yet to achieve electoral success. Analysts suggest the BJP’s focus on Tamil Nadu reflects a broader strategy to expand its influence in southern India.

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