Rail budget: Mixed reaction from BJP’s Tamil Nadu allies

Two allies in the BJP-led NDA in Tamil Nadu — PMK and MDMK — Tuesday termed the rail budget “disappointing”.

However, another ally DMDK welcomed the budget proposals, while stressing that the public sector character of the railways should be maintained.

In a statement issued here, PMK founder S. Ramadoss said Railway Minister D.V. Sadananda Gowda disappointed the state as people expected new projects and trains to be announced for Tamil Nadu.

Referring to the five new trains in Tamil Nadu announced by Gowda, Ramadoss said they would not benefit the people.

MDMK general secretary Vaiko termed the budget disappointing for Tamil Nadu, but said there were some welcome features.

He said barring a few new trains, the long term expectations of the state were not fulfilled.

DMDK leader A. Vijaykant welcomed the various passenger amenities proposed in Gowda’s maiden budget.

He said attracting private and foreign investment for projects was not wrong.
(IANS)