Sellur Raju opposes inclusion of few areas into Madurai corpn

Madurai: Former minister and Madurai West MLA Sellur K Raju voiced opposition to the proposed inclusion of areas like Kovilpapakudi and Paravai into the Madurai corporation limits. Submitting a petition to Madurai district collector M S Sangeetha on Tuesday, Raju stated that the move would not benefit residents and urged authorities to reconsider the decision.

Speaking to reporters, Raju highlighted that the proposal to merge more than 20 rural local bodies with the corporation raised concerns among locals. He argued that merging rural areas with the corporation would lead to higher taxes without corresponding improvements in amenities. He also expressed fears that schemes like the 100-day employment programme, vital for rural residents, would be affected.

"Madurai corporation is already struggling to provide basic amenities to the existing 100 wards. How will they ensure facilities for the newly added areas?" Raju questioned. He criticised the govt for failing to outline a concrete development plan for these areas before proposing their inclusion.

Raju emphasised that any decision to merge areas into the corporation should consider the views of local residents.

In a separate statement on the Erode East assembly bypoll, Raju expressed confidence that AIADMK votes would remain intact and not shift to other parties.