CM Rangasamy Appeals to Vice President for Puducherry's Statehood Recognition

The Chief Minister of Puducherry, N Rangasamy, has appealed to Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar for statehood for Puducherry, currently a Union Territory. Rangasamy submitted a memorandum during Dhankhar's three-day official visit to the region. The Vice President is attending events at JIPMER and Pondicherry Central University.

Rangasamy highlighted that successive governments, regardless of political affiliation, have consistently urged the Centre to consider statehood. He noted that the territorial Assembly has passed resolutions with unanimous support from all political parties and the people of Puducherry advocating for this change.

Statehood and Financial Implications

The Chief Minister stressed that the elected government in Puducherry operates under constraints not imposed by the Constitution but by the Government of Union Territories Act of 1963. This decades-old law limits the powers of the Council of Ministers, hindering swift execution of developmental activities.

Rangasamy pointed out that Puducherry's exclusion from the Finance Commission results in inadequate fund allocation for development. He argued that statehood could lead to an additional Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,000 crores in funds, facilitating infrastructure projects and boosting tourism.

Challenges in Development

The Chief Minister expressed concerns about attracting investors due to limited powers, which affects industrial growth and employment opportunities. He urged the Vice President to raise the issue of statehood at higher levels to enhance tourism and industrial development.

In his memorandum, Rangasamy explained that despite having a democratically elected government with a Council of Ministers and an assembly, they struggle to implement various developmental initiatives promptly due to restricted powers.

Rangasamy emphasised that granting statehood would significantly aid Puducherry's growth as a tourism destination. He believes it would help attract investments necessary for industrial development and job creation.

The Chief Minister requested Vice President Dhankhar to discuss Puducherry's statehood at higher levels whenever possible. This move aims to secure enhanced tourism and industrial development opportunities for the region.

With inputs from PTI