DMK President and Chief Minister Kalaignar M. Karunanidhi on July 13 called upon party members to forgive and forget meaningless criticism of the government. Regardless of numerous demonstrations and statements against his government, appreciation of the government’s policies and measures kept coming. “Let us draw motivation from such words of appreciation,” Kalaignar said in a statement.

He referred to an article in Wall Street Journal that commended the State government for its investor-friendly approach and policy. It explained how Chennai was emerging as a leading automobile centre. In contrast to this, the Chief Minister recalled the advertisement given by the previous ADMK government in the Wall Street Journal a few years ago, highlighting its achievements, by paying Rs.3.88 crore.

Kalaignar compared that advertisement with the elaborate article now featured in the business journal, which was based purely on the merits of the DMK government. He said the advertisement that appeared in the Wall Street Journal during the ADMK regime was an indicator that the previous government was known for its ostentatious way of spending public money.

The Chief Minister also claimed that a huge sum was given as commission towards that advertisement. “Those who have been involved in such irregularities during their regimes are now addressing public meetings condemning the DMK government, and a few other political parties are also extending support,” Kalaignar exclaimed sarcastically. “Let those engaged in the vilification campaign against this government go ahead with their mission because accolades for this government keep coming from various quarters.

Encouraged by the latter, let us forget and forgive the undesirable comments and move ahead,” he said.The Chief Minister also referred to a survey conducted by the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) that described Tamil Nadu as one among the top three investor-friendly States.