Sumanthi Raman Warns Of Rising Debt Amid AIADMK-DMK Freebie War In Tamil Nadu

On this India Today broadcast, political analyst Sumanthi Raman critiques the escalating 'competitive populism' between the AIADMK and DMK in Tamil Nadu. Raman argues that while targeted welfare like student laptops and cycles are beneficial, unconditional cash handouts are detrimental, stating, 'I don't think so, Akshita, because I think this kind of competitive populism is not healthy for the state.' The discussion highlights the AIADMK's promise of ₹2,000 for women, doubling the DMK's current ₹1,000 offering. Raman points to the state's fiscal health, noting that debt has surged from ₹4.69 lakh crore to over ₹10 lakh crore in five years, largely funded by borrowing. The debate features AIADMK spokesperson Kovai Sathiyan and DMK spokesperson Salem Dharani Dharan, who clash over financial management, revenue deficits, and the efficacy of social welfare spending versus 'freebies' ahead of the 2026 assembly elections.