Puducherry CM Pushes for Statehood During VP Dhankhar's Visit

Puducherry, June 17 (PTI): Puducherry Chief Minister N Rangasamy has submitted a memorandum to Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, urging for the Union Territory to be granted statehood. Dhankhar is currently on an official visit to Puducherry for events at JIPMER and Pondicherry Central University.

During their meeting on Monday, CM Rangasamy highlighted that successive governments in Puducherry, regardless of political affiliations, have consistently advocated for statehood to the Centre. He noted that the territorial Assembly has repeatedly passed resolutions, with all political parties and citizens supporting statehood.

In the memorandum, Rangasamy pointed out that the governing powers in Puducherry are limited by the Government of Union Territories Act of 1963, despite having a democratically elected government with a Council of Ministers. This limitation restricts the government's ability to swiftly implement developmental projects.

The Chief Minister also emphasized that Puducherry's exclusion from the Finance Commission has led to inadequate fund distribution for development projects. He argued that statehood could potentially secure an additional Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,000 crores in funds, which could significantly boost infrastructure and establish Puducherry as a burgeoning tourism hub.

Rangasamy acknowledged the current constraints in attracting investments for industrial growth and job creation due to limited powers. He appealed to the vice president to advocate for statehood discussions at higher forums, emphasizing the benefits for tourism and industrial development.

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