EPS's claims of professional tax for weavers are untrue, says TN textiles minister Gandhi

CHENNAI: Denying any move to impose professional tax on weavers, Minister for Handlooms and Textiles R Gandhi slammed AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami for peddling ‘lies.’

The minister on Sunday issued a statement saying that no official information or government order has been issued by the Department of Handlooms, Handicrafts, Textiles and Khadi, regarding any implementation of professional tax on weavers. "On the contrary, a letter issued by the Directorate of Municipal Administration (DMA) on November 6, 2024, instructed local authorities to identify commercial and residential uses by comparing electricity connection lists, but no professional tax has been fixed," he said in a statement.

Gandhi also emphasised the Stalin-led DMK government’s commitment to controlling yarn prices through monthly price-fixing committee meetings, making it a false claim that weavers are struggling due to increasing yarn prices.

The minister highlighted that the DMK government has been prioritising weavers' welfare and safety, and implementing various development and welfare schemes. The Ranipet MLA flayed Edappadi K Palaniswami the Leader of Opposition’s statements are baseless and politically motivated.

Further, the Textiles Minister urged the AIADMK general secretary to refrain from spreading misinformation.