Chennai, March 15 The DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance staged statewide protests on Sunday, criticizing the Centre over the shortage of domestic and commercial LPG cylinders across the country.
The protests saw participation from alliance constituents, including the Congress, Left parties, and the VCK led by Thol Thirumavalavan.
In a statement, the parties alleged that the crisis, which has impacted several households and the MSME sector, is a result of the central government's "misguided policies" and lack of planning. The alliance pointed out that while the conflict in the Gulf region has disrupted global supply chains since last month, the Centre has "failed" to secure adequate buffer stocks.
While the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee President K Selvaperunthagai led the protest in Chennai East, MDMK Chief Vaiko staged a protest in Madurai. During the protest, VCK Chief Thol Thirumavalavan criticized US President Donald Trump for the conflict in West Asia.
The Indian Union Muslim League, Manithaneya Makkal Kazhagam, Tamilaga Vazhvurimai Katchi, and Kongunadu Makkal Desiya Katchi also held protests across the state.
To mitigate the hardships faced by eateries, the Tamil Nadu government has announced a subsidy of Rs 2 per unit of electricity for those using induction stoves.