Former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK president M.K. Stalin, on Sunday (May 10, 2026), responded sharply to Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay’s remarks that the previous government had left the State treasury empty with a debt burden of ₹10 lakh crore.

In a social media post, Mr. Stalin said the government should not claim there was “no money” at the very beginning of its tenure. “Do not say there is no money at the very beginning. It is there. What is required is the mind to give it to people and an efficient administration,” he said.

‘Crises have been overcome’

Mr. Stalin pointed out the previous DMK government had navigated multiple crises over the last five years, including the COVID-19 pandemic, floods, and what he described as the “betrayal” of the BJP-led Union government, while still implementing welfare schemes.

He also defended the State’s borrowing levels, asserting the debt remained within stipulated limits. Referring to the interim Budget presented in February this year, Mr. Stalin said the State’s financial position had already been explained before the elections.

“You made promises only after that. Do not cheat and divert the attention of the people who voted for you,” he said.

Responding to Mr. Vijay’s claim that his electoral promises were practical, Mr. Stalin said the new Chief Minister had only just entered administration and would now learn the challenges involved in fulfilling promises.

“Mr. Vijay, you have just stepped into administration. I hope you will learn the skills of how to fulfil promises. I expect it from you just as the people who voted for you do,” he said.

Mr. Stalin, however, ended his remarks on a conciliatory note, congratulating Mr. Vijay and welcoming the new government’s announcements.

“Let me congratulate you on the journey to make Tamil Nadu a prosperous State,” he said.