Chennai: As speculation grows over a possible AIADMK-BJP tie-up for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, Lok Sabha Deputy Speaker and AIADMK senior M. Thambidurai has averred there is no need for the AIADMK to help the lotus (BJP symbol) bloom in Tamil Nadu. However, without replying in the negative and almost sounding optimistic on the alliance issue, Fisheries Minister D. Jayakumar said a decision on poll ties would be taken only after “consensus” within the party.
Blowing hot over the saffron party, Mr. Thambidurai said it is not the task of the AIADMK, founded by late Chief Minister M. G. Ramachandran (MGR), to help the BJP to grow.
“We will strive hard for further development of our party and shall not give room for the BJP or any other party to grow, nor shall we go with them (BJP)” he told reporters. Thambidurai was in Coimbatore on Thursday to pay tributes along with his party members, to MGR on his 102nd birth anniversary.
He said it was ridiculous on the part of auditor S. Gurumurthy to say that AIADMK should align with the BJP to help it gain a foothold in
Tamil Nadu. “When we are trying to grow, there is no chance for the AIADMK to take the BJP on its shoulders and allow it to gain a foothold,” Thambidurai thundered.
Meanwhile, speaking to reporters here Jayakumar said the decision on an alliance cannot be taken instantly and that it ought to be deliberated.
“There is still time for poll alliance. The decision can be taken only after consensus within the party,” the minister said in reply to a query on electoral pact with the BJP. “That may be his desire. Even we should also desire for alliance with the BJP. That is, we should consent and there should be consensus within the party. Let the election schedule be announced, then we will announce,” Jayakumar said reacting to Gurumurthy’s view.
