In a recent controversy, Prime Minister Modi criticized the Tamil Nadu government’s newspaper advertisement, alleging it displayed a ‘China rocket picture.’ The DMK MP, K Kanimozhi, came to the party’s defense, attributing it to a human error. The Prime Minister, however, accused the DMK of failing to acknowledge India’s advancements in the space sector.
Questioning the Advertisement
PM Modi, addressing a gathering in Tirunelveli, accused the ruling DMK of obstructing the acknowledgment of the Centre’s efforts in the space sector. He asserted that despite media outlets’ interest in highlighting these achievements, the DMK regime hindered their coverage.
DMK’s Response
Kanimozhi defended the advertisement, claiming ignorance about the origin of the contentious image. She argued against labeling China as an enemy, emphasizing past diplomatic engagements, including the meeting between Prime Minister Modi and his Chinese counterpart in Mahabalipuram.
Allegations of False Credit
In a veiled reference to the DMK, PM Modi accused the party of taking false credit for government schemes. He specifically highlighted the alleged affixing of China’s sticker to claim credit for the ISRO launch pad in Tamil Nadu.
BJP’s Condemnation
Tamil Nadu BJP president K Annamalai strongly criticized the DMK for featuring the ‘China rocket’ picture in an advertisement promoting ISRO’s proposed second launch pad. He accused the DMK of demonstrating a commitment to China and neglecting India’s sovereignty.
DMK’s Defense
DMK spokesperson J Constandine Ravindran dismissed the BJP’s accusations as politically motivated. He clarified that the advertisement aimed to showcase India’s success in space technology, aligning it with other accomplished nations in the field.
PM Modi’s Call for Accountability
Prime Minister Modi asserted that the DMK is unwilling to acknowledge India’s progress in the space sector. He accused the party of insulting scientists, the space sector, and misusing taxpayers’ money. PM Modi called for accountability, stating that it is high time the DMK faces consequences for their actions.
BJP’s Political Allegations
Annamalai continued his critique, alleging that the DMK, known for corruption, desperately attempted to gain credit since the announcement of ISRO’s second launch pad. The BJP maintains that the DMK’s actions reflect a disregard for India’s sovereignty.
DMK’s Explanation
In response to the allegations, DMK clarified that the advertisement aimed to highlight India’s achievements in space technology. The inclusion of various rockets from successful nations was meant to showcase India’s parity with developed space-faring countries.
Modi’s Development Projects
Shifting focus, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects worth approximately Rs 17,300 crore. During this event, he criticized the previous UPA regime for neglecting Tamil Nadu’s progress.
In conclusion, the controversy surrounding the ‘China rocket’ advertisement has sparked a heated exchange between the ruling DMK and the BJP, with Prime Minister Modi calling for accountability and the BJP accusing the DMK of compromising India’s sovereignty.
Md GuRu