Chennai, 24 March (H.S.):Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Tuesday sharply criticised the Union government’s preparedness to deal with the fallout of the escalating West Asia conflict, raising concerns over fuel security and the safety of Indian citizens stranded abroad.

Taking aim at remarks on public preparedness, Stalin said crisis management is the responsibility of the government and cannot be shifted onto citizens. He argued that asking people to brace for disruptions reflects gaps in institutional readiness at the highest level.

“Prepared for what — leadership or its absence?” Stalin asked, asserting that governance must ensure protection and stability during emergencies rather than placing the burden on the public.

The DMK president also questioned whether adequate precautionary measures had been put in place in advance to mitigate potential disruptions arising from the conflict.

Highlighting immediate concerns, Stalin said he had written to the Prime Minister seeking urgent steps to ensure uninterrupted LPG supply across Tamil Nadu for domestic, commercial, and industrial use. He warned that any disruption would directly affect households, small businesses, and key sectors dependent on fuel.

He also flagged the plight of Tamil residents stranded in West Asia and called for coordinated evacuation efforts, including transit visa facilitation and additional flights to ensure their safe return.

Further, Stalin urged the Centre to revisit the Natural Gas (Supply Regulation) Order, 2026, noting that Tamil Nadu could face increased power demand during the summer months and would require adequate gas allocation to avoid electricity shortages.

Emphasising the broader impact of global geopolitical tensions, Stalin said proactive and timely intervention by the Union government is crucial to safeguard energy security and public welfare, reiterating that crisis preparedness must remain a core responsibility of the Centre.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman