DMK Slams TVK Government Over Stalin Name Plaque Issue At Nemmeli Desalination Plant
DMK has accused the TVK government of removing a plaque carrying MK Stalin’s name from the Nemmeli desalination project, while officials have denied the allegation.
Political Tension Deepens In Tamil Nadu
The political feud between the DMK and the TVK government in Tamil Nadu intensified on Monday, July 6, 2026, after the DMK criticised the alleged removal of a plaque carrying former Chief Minister MK Stalin’s name from the Nemmeli desalination project near Chennai.
DMK Alleges Attempt To Erase Stalin’s Role
The controversy is linked to the 150 million litres per day second phase of the Nemmeli desalination plant, located around 48 km from Chennai. The DMK alleged that the plaque was removed ahead of Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay’s visit to the project site.
The party claimed that the move was an attempt to erase the role of the previous DMK government and present the project with a TVK political stamp.
Project Commissioned During Stalin’s Tenure
The ₹1,516 crore Nemmeli desalination project was commissioned by MK Stalin in February 2024 during his tenure as Chief Minister. The project was designed to supply drinking water to nearly 9 lakh residents in Chennai’s southern suburbs and the IT corridor.
Official Denies Plaque Removal Claim
While the DMK strongly objected to the alleged removal, an official denied that any such move had taken place. The denial has made the issue a fresh political flashpoint between the two parties.
The DMK, however, said the project was part of Chennai’s long-term drinking water infrastructure and should not be politicised.
Stalin’s Earlier Three-Month Remark Adds Background
The latest dispute comes weeks after DMK chief MK Stalin questioned the stability of the TVK government. Earlier in June, Stalin had claimed that the Vijay-led government may not survive even three months, adding to the political tension in the state.
DMK And TVK Trade Charges
The relationship between the DMK and TVK has become increasingly strained in recent weeks. TVK had accused the DMK of attempting to influence its legislators, while the DMK has also raised concerns over the arrest of former minister Anitha R Radhakrishnan in connection with alleged derogatory remarks against the Chief Minister.
Nemmeli Plaque Row Becomes New Flashpoint
The Nemmeli plaque issue is now likely to remain a major talking point in Tamil Nadu politics. While the DMK has framed it as an attempt to erase its administrative record, the TVK side has denied the allegation.
With both parties continuing to exchange sharp political remarks, the dispute has added another layer to the ongoing DMK–TVK confrontation in the state.
