P. Shanmugam, State Secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), inaugurated the party’s new union office at Tiruppuvanam in Sivaganga district and addressed the media on various political and governance issues.
During his speech, Shanmugam urged the Tamil Nadu Government to directly manage the state's mineral resources, stating that such a move would help increase government revenue and ensure better utilization of natural resources for public welfare.
He also expressed concern over the growing drug menace, saying that the culture of substance abuse is a major factor behind various crimes. Stressing the need for stronger action, he called for the complete implementation of the government's goal of creating a “Drug-Free Tamil Nadu.”
Commenting on recent political developments, Shanmugam said that if AIADMK MLAs resign from their positions and join the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), it would amount to disrespecting the voters who elected them. He described such defections as unhealthy political practices and said they should not be encouraged, as they could lead to unnecessary by-elections and political instability.
He further clarified that he had not contradicted the remarks made by his party’s General Secretary regarding discussions about a possible understanding or alliance between the DMK and AIADMK, and reiterated his party’s position on the issue.