Abolish ‘Shadow Provincial Council’ Immediately, Says MP Selvam

20-Feb-2026

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Selvam Adaikalanathan, MP of the Democratic Tamil National Alliance, urged the government to abandon attempts to implement what he described as an illegal “shadow provincial council.”

Speaking in Parliament on 18 February during a debate on regulations under the Special Commodity Levy Act and the Motor Traffic Act, he stressed that provincial councils must be constituted through elections in accordance with democratic principles.

He stated that essential goods are not being sold at controlled prices and accused officials of turning a blind eye. He called for stronger action against corruption and measures to ensure consumers receive goods at fair prices.

He also highlighted instability in railway services, particularly night services to Mannar, and requested the Minister of Transport to intervene.

Criticizing the government, he alleged that it was attempting to bypass elections and operate a “shadow provincial administration” led by governors and appointed officials. He insisted that the President must intervene and ensure the immediate dissolution of what he described as an unlawful structure.