M Karunanidhi meets estranged elder son Alagiri, sets off speculation

CHENNAI: DMK chief M. Karunanidhi on Thursday met estranged elder son M.K. Alagiri, setting off speculation that the former south zone secretary may return to the party amidst observations by some opposition leaders that Karunanidhi is losing control over party affairs.

Party treasurer M.K. Stalin was, however, quick to dispel such speculation and said nothing political was discussed in the meeting.  “There is no political significance. Matters related to party affairs were not discussed in the meeting.  I got information that he met his father and mother and enquired about their health. I request you not to blow this out of proportion”, he told reporters here.

Party spokesperson T.K. S. Elangovan was not sure about the purpose of the meeting and said the party high command alone will comment on the meeting. Despite the assurance of Stalin, the reluctance and caution of the party leaders to openly comment on the meeting indicates the uneasiness and apprehensions among the rank and file.

Party functionaries are unhappy over the timing of the meeting and feel it could have been avoided till the completion of elections. The unexpected meeting and Karunanidhi’s silence could undo the hardwork of Stalin to bring DMK back to power.

Besides, doubts over Alagiri’s return could lead to resurfacing of cracks in the party which has unity of command under Stalin now.
 The semblance of unity could take a hit and charges of several power centres and nepotism could damage the party during elections, they fear.
The meeting came a day after DMDK aligned itself with People’s Welfare Alliance, indicating that Karunanidhi could have avoided the meeting till now to see that he did not ruffle the feathers of Vijayakanth, who is said to be antagonistic towards Alagiri.