Tamil Nadu Governor K Rosaiah today lauded ruling AIADMK chief Jayalalithaa in the Assembly for her efforts to secure the state's rights in river water disputes, drawing opposition criticism for praising a convicted person.
"I must place on record my heartfelt appreciation to Selvi J Jayalalithaa for her relentless pursuit and untiring efforts to secure the legitimate rights of the State in various inter-state river water disputes," he said in his customary address to the session, the first of the year, to the thumping of benches by the ruling party members.
It was only because of her perseverance and courage that the State could secure a "historic verdict" from the Surpeme Court declaring Mullai Periyar Dam as hydrologically, structurally and seismically safe thereby enabling Tamil Nadu to raise the water level to 142 feet, he noted.
However, Rosaiah's remarks drew flak from the opposition. "It is quite amusing and strange that a person who has been awarded a fine of Rs 100 crore and a four year jail term has been praised in Assembly," DMK chief M Karunanidhi said in a statement shortly after the address.
Jayalalithaa was convicted by a Bengaluru court last year in a disproportionate assets case.
PMK Leader S Ramadoss also criticised the address saying: "By praising Jayalalithaa who has been thrown away from her Chief Minister's post following her conviction, the dignity of Assembly has fallen into an immeasurable depth."
On issues involving Centre-State coordination, the Governor welcomed the Centre's decision to abolish Planning Commission as it had "lost its relevance" and expressed hope that the new body NITI Aayog will aid better formulation of policies.
On GST Bill, he said it was introduced without evolving a consensus on several aspects. He recalled how Tamil Nadu had urged that it should not be hastily pushed through.
He also urged the Centre for early clearance to the extension of the Chennai Metro Rail Project.
Rosaiah commended the state's efforts in maintaining law and order situation remarking "attempts of extremist groups to establish base in Tamil Nadu has been successfully thwarted through vigilant and effective preventive measures."
He urged the Centre that the voluntary repatriation of displaced Sri Lankan Tamils refugees could be "countenanced" after putting in place proper rehabilitation measures in the neighbouring island nation.
Earlier, DMK, CPI-M and Puthiya Tamizhagam walked out of the House saying they were boycotting the Governor's address after AIADMK members shouted them down when they tried to make a point.
