Chennai: The Congress on Friday dismissed Chief Minister Jayalalithaa`s allegation that the Centre was adopting `step-motherly treatment` to non-Congress ruled states like Tamil Nadu.
"There is no truth in Jayalalithaa`s allegation that the Centre was adopting one yardstick for states ruled by Congress and its allies and another for non-Congress ruled states," TNCC President BS Gnanadesikan`s said. The Centre treated all states on par and it was the duty of the state governments to use central funds effectively and efficiently, he said.
On the state government increasing milk prices and bus fares, he demanded the hike be withdrawn immediately.
While announcing an increase in milk prices and bus fares yesterday, Jayalalithaa had claimed that her government had no other option but to announce the hikes as Centre was non- receptive to the state`s demand for a special financial package. She had also charged the Centre with meting out "step-motherly treatment" to non-Congress ruled states and neglecting them.
Gnanadesikan, who called on Congress president Sonia Gandhi at her residence today after being appointed TNCC chief, said she had directed him to seek everybody`s cooperation and strengthen the party at the grassroots.
She assured AICC`s full support in this regard, he added. PTI