Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Friday, urging him to expedite the release of pending funds for various welfare schemes in the state.

Stalin highlighted the importance of these funds for Tamil Nadu’s development, stressing the need for timely financial support to implement ongoing and new projects effectively.

During the meeting, Stalin also sought the central government’s cooperation for the second phase of the Chennai Metro project.

He asserted the successful collaboration between the Union and State governments during the first phase and expressed his hope for similar cooperation moving forward.

“We want the second phase to be implemented with the same spirit of partnership as the first,” Stalin stated, as quoted by ANI.

The Chief Minister also brought up the issue of Tamil fishermen being frequently detained by the Sri Lankan Navy.

Recently, 37 fishermen from Tamil Nadu were arrested, and three boats were seized, leading to rising tensions and concerns among the fishing communities in the state.

Stalin urged the Prime Minister to personally intervene and ensure the safety and well-being of these fishermen, who often face harsh penalties and fines while carrying out their livelihood.

Earlier in the week, Stalin had raised the matter with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, requesting diplomatic measures to address the escalating maritime disputes.

He emphasized the need for proactive engagement to safeguard the rights and livelihoods of Tamil fishermen and prevent further detentions.

Following his meeting with PM Modi, Stalin also held discussions with Congress leader Sonia Gandhi ahead of a major opposition rally scheduled to take place in Kancheepuram on September 28.

Stalin’s visit to New Delhi saw active engagements with several DMK leaders, including MPs TR Baalu, Tiruchi Siva, Dayanidhi Maran, K Kanimozhi, and T Sumathy, reflecting the party’s concerted efforts to address both state and national issues.