DMK and TVK debate on cars for MLAs, F4 night race in Assembly

The Leader of the Opposition They are Stalin. | Photo credit: PTI

The Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly on Friday again witnessed a debate over the state government’s decision to buy new cars for MLAs.

The issue became a point of discussion after DMK MLA GV Markandayan said that the TVK government, which had promised “change”, should focus on implementing its promises like ₹2,500 per month for women and providing six free domestic LPG cylinders, among others, instead of providing cars to MLAs.

CTR Law Minister Nirmal Kumar. | Photo credit: R. RAGU

Reacting to this, CTR Law Minister Nirmal Kumar said cars were provided so that MLAs could visit the length and breadth of their constituencies and claimed that people in the villages had told him that Mr. Markandayan had never met them.

Health Minister KG Arun Raj said that only 100 days have passed since TVK formed the government but the Chief Minister (C. Joseph Vijay) is fulfilling his promises.

The survey promises

“Today we are giving approval to construct a building without taking money/square foot. How do you say nothing has changed? Despite knowing why the finances were bad, why did you (former DMK government) say you will build a ‘Pen’ memorial (at the harbour, in memory of late Chief Minister M Karunanidhi)?” he asked.

Revenue Minister KA Sengottaiyan, on his part, questioned the DMK for organizing a ‘car race’ (Formula 4 night race) in August/September 2024. To this, DMK deputy floor leader KN Nehru said the former sports minister (Udhayanidhi Stalin) had organized several sports events like chess, hockey competitions and also car races.

Mr. Udhayanidhi replied, “Our leader (former Chief Minister MK Stalin) said that whoever (MLA) needs a car can get one. DMK legislators may not get cars. Now there is a debate about car racing. It was an international race. We held a night race for the first time in Asia. We did it. At that time, many went to court. But you did not allow us, the court will not allow it. disparaging motor sports competitors.”

Published – 28 Aug 2026 22:28 IST