You are neither there nor here, Edappadi K Palaniswami tells DMK members

CHENNAI: There was light-hearted banter and taunting as well over astrology and bit of rationalism in Assembly on Wednesday and both the ruling AIADMK and opposition DMK members exchanged hot words and smiles over the issue. And the finale was Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami's remark.

“Starts are definitely in our favour (and against you). That's why you are neither there (at the Centre) nor here (state),” Mr Palaniswami remarked.

While winding up the reply to the demand for grants for his department, cooperation minister Sellur K. Raju narrated a story on whom astrology favoured and said, “some would find a matching bride, and the marriage would be fixed from 8 out 10 matching points rated by the astrologer.

However, the marriage does not get solemnised as the groom neither has individuality nor accepts advice given to him.”

“And such a marriage would only end up as day dream,” he said sarcastically referring to the DMK president M. K. Stalin's claim of capturing power at the state.

Immediately, the DMK members protested.

Intervening, Chief minister Mr Palaniswami said the DMK members had no belief on god or faith in astrology. “But we have faith on god and have belief in astrology. So, no ills will befall upon us.”

At this DMK deputy leader Duraimurugan smilingly said, “we don't believe in astrology” and asked if the AIADMK consulted astrologers for themselves or the DMK.

Retorting, Mr Palaniswami said, “we are ruling (the state) as the stars were in our favour. Since it was
disadvantageous for you, you are neither there nor here and are hanging in between.” The punch line evoked laughter among the treasury benches.