Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has asserted that the southern state has outperformed all other Indian states across major developmental metrics, arguing it has reversed the narrative that northern states prosper at the south's expense. Stalin used the occasion to also criticise opposition leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami for making disparaging remarks about deceased political figures. The claims carry broader significance amid ongoing tensions in India over the redistribution of federal funds, with southern states arguing they are penalised for their stronger economic and demographic performance.