"We will continue to insist on statehood": N Rangasamy confident of Centre granting statehood to Puducherry
Puducherry, May 20
Puducherry Chief Minister N Rangasamy on Wednesday expressed absolute confidence that the Union Territory will successfully transition into a full-fledged state. He noted that structural steps are being taken continuously and Puducherry will continue to 'insist on statehood'.
The Chief Minister noted that structural steps are being taken continuously to present the region's strong administrative case before the central authorities.
Addressing the media, while highlighting the mutual understanding and shared vision with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rangasamy said, "As the Prime Minister said, Puducherry is becoming the best Puducherry. It is growing in all sectors. Welfare assistance is also being provided. Puducherry is emerging as the best state, and we will continue to insist on statehood. We will definitely get it. The Prime Minister is confident that the central government will grant statehood to Puducherry, and confidence will definitely prevail."
Chief Minister Rangasamy addressed the media after the newly elected MLAs took the oath. He said, "The welfare schemes of the Puducherry government will continue and that the relationship with the Central government is good. This will continue."
Addressing media queries regarding political arrangements for the upcoming vacant seat, Rangasamy said, "After the by-election for Thattanchavadi constituency is announced, it will be known which party fielded who?"
Denying the accusation made by former Chief Minister Narayanasamy that a deal of Rs 100 crore was being made for the ministerial post, Rangasamy said that "if he tells who he spoke to, he can be investigated."
The CM further extended his greetings to the newly formed administration in Tamil Nadu and conveyed his support to the incoming state leadership.
"Congratulations to the newly formed government in Tamil Nadu. My best wishes to the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu," he said.
"I am confident that he will perform in the best way. Anand, who left Puducherry, has been given a good position. I am very happy that he has been given a place in the cabinet. He is also experienced. He will perform well," said Chief Minister Rangasamy.
Highlighting the positive outcome of the recent ministerial-level interactions regarding regional infrastructure development, the Chief Minister assured that the Puducherry airport will be expanded in the Tamil Nadu region after talking to the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.
— ANI
Reader Comments
I'm from the US but I've visited Puducherry. Small but charming place. Statehood could mean more local control over tourism and French heritage preservation. Interesting to watch!
Good to see Rangasamy confident, but let's be real—statehood for small UTs is always a political bargaining chip. The Centre rarely gives it unless it's politically convenient. Hope the people of Pondy don't get their hopes too high.
As a Tamilian, I feel Puducherry has always been caught between Delhi and Chennai. Statehood would give them the power to make their own decisions without interference. But will the finances work? That's the real question. 🤔
"Best Puducherry" sounds like a nice slogan, but let's see if they can actually deliver on infrastructure. The airport expansion mentioned is long overdue. Statehood might help speed things up. Fingers crossed! 🙏
Rangasamy is an experienced politician, but his confidence seems misplaced. The Centre has bigger fish to fry than granting statehood to a tiny UT. But if it happens, it would be a game-changer for local governance. Let's wait and watch.
From an outsider's perspective, Puducherry is unique
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