Sat May 31 17:36:39 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the provided text, focusing on the political accusations in Madurai.

**Former AIADMK Minister Criticizes DMK Government’s Project Delays in Madurai Ahead of Chief Minister’s Roadshow**

**Madurai, May 31, 2025** – Just ahead of Chief Minister M.K. Stalin’s scheduled roadshow in Madurai, former AIADMK Minister Sellur K. Raju has launched a scathing critique of the DMK government’s handling of key infrastructure projects in the city. In a social media post, Raju, who also serves as the AIADMK urban district secretary, accused the DMK administration of deliberately delaying the Mullaperiyar drinking water scheme for Madurai, leading to a significant cost escalation.

Raju stated that the project’s cost had ballooned from ₹1,296 crore to ₹1,685 crore due to the delays. He further criticized the DMK for failing to complete Smart City projects initiated under the previous AIADMK government, claiming that the Madurai Corporation is losing ₹7 crore annually due to the delayed inauguration of the commercial complex at the Periyar bus stand.

The former minister also questioned the status of the ₹280-crore Information Technology Park announced by the DMK government in 2022. He further alleged that the required land for Madurai Airport expansion is still pending. He lamented that poorly planned bridges are hindering the city’s development, which could undermine the city’s tourism and spirituality potential.

Raju’s broadside sets the stage for a potentially tense political atmosphere surrounding Chief Minister Stalin’s visit. The timing of the statement suggests a deliberate attempt by the AIADMK to undermine the DMK’s image in Madurai and capitalize on public frustration over perceived project delays and unfulfilled promises.

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