Expressing shock over the recent development with the Centre regretting the implementation of NHAI projects and the state government agreeing to extend its full cooperation, opposition AIADMK on Tuesday asked Chief Minister M K Stalin to closely monitor the state’s support on the matter and ensure development in Tamil Nadu.

Asking the state government to rise above politics and bestow importance to development, AIADMK coordinator O Panneerselvam said Tamil Nadu should strive to obtain central aid to carry out development works in the interest of people. “During the AIADMK regime, we extended full cooperation to the Centre and obtained various road infrastructure and health projects besides 11 medical colleges. This is the best example of federalism,” Panneerselvam, also, deputy leader of the opposition in the Assembly, said in a statement.

“Not supporting Tamil Nadu’s development is unacceptable and reprehensible. In doing so, funds meant for Tamil Nadu would be diverted to other states and this will tantamount to making Tamil Nadu regressive,” the AIADMK leader said.

On Monday, responding to Union Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari’s remarks on implementation of NHAI projects in Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister M K Stalin said his government has put the best foot forward to support NHAI and assured “full cooperation” to NHAI to expedite all the works.

Referring to Gadkari’s remarks on issues faced by NHAI projects in the state, Panneerselvam said National Highways connect the state capitals , major ports, major factories and tourist destinations in the Indian subcontinent, and enable people to travel in less time.

“The Union Minister’s regret raises suspicion among the people on whether the DMK government has been vigilant… In the interest of Tamil Nadu, obtain more funds from the Centre. Put politics aside and give importance to development,” Panneerselvam urged. He appealed to the Chief Minister to avoid such criticism in future and put Tamil Nadu on the path of progress.