
Sat May 24 08:01:25 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
Puducherry Chief Minister N. Rangasamy has skipped the NITI Aayog Governing Council meeting in New Delhi for an unknown reason. This is not the first time he has abstained from such important national-level meetings. His absence has drawn criticism from opposition parties like Congress, who point out that even Chief Ministers opposed to the Prime Minister’s policies attend these meetings. BJP legislators have also urged him to visit Delhi and meet the Prime Minister. A source close to the Chief Minister defends his actions, stating that he will visit Delhi when appropriate and that he maintains a good relationship with the Prime Minister.
**News Article:**
**Puducherry CM Skips Key NITI Aayog Meeting, Fuels Controversy**
**PUDUCHERRY, May 24, 2025** – Puducherry Chief Minister N. Rangasamy has once again stirred controversy by absenting himself from the NITI Aayog Governing Council meeting held in New Delhi today. This marks another instance of the Chief Minister, who also heads the All India N.R. Congress, skipping crucial discussions on national policy and development.
The NITI Aayog Governing Council, chaired by the Prime Minister, serves as a platform for Chief Ministers and Lieutenant Governors of States and Union Territories to engage in strategic dialogue and shape the national development agenda.
Rangasamy’s repeated absence has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties, particularly the Congress. Former Chief Minister V. Narayanasamy highlighted the participation of even Chief Ministers who disagree with the Prime Minister’s policies, contrasting it with Rangasamy’s repeated abstentions.
BJP legislators have also joined the chorus, urging the Chief Minister to engage with the central government and address the needs of the Union Territory.
While Rangasamy has remained tight-lipped about his reasons for not attending, a source close to him defended his actions, stating that he will visit Delhi and meet with the Prime Minister “at the appropriate time.” The source emphasized the positive relationship between the two leaders and highlighted Rangasamy’s past history of limited visits to Delhi, even when heading a Congress government.
The Chief Minister’s continued absence raises questions about Puducherry’s engagement in national-level policy discussions and development initiatives.