Chennai: Whatever superstar Rajinikanth says or expresses, becomes a hot topic for debate among political circles these days. The latest is his decision to not contest the upcoming Lok Sabha election.
AIADMK senior and state fisheries minister Mr D. Jayakumar has hailed Rajinikanth's decision, saying each party and leader had its own stand on politics and issues, and Rajinikanth had made his mind known.
His party colleague and revenue minister Mr R. B. Udayakumar said Rajinikanth has asked voters to vote for the party that promises a solution to the water crisis in Tamil Nadu. “He obviously means the AIADMK because only we can solve the water problem in the state,” he said.
However, AIADMK deputy coordinator Mr K.P. Munusamy said Rajinikanth has been only making media statements. “Let him step out and work with the people before making all his proclamations,” he said.
The CPI saw a different message in the actor's decision. CPI state secretary Mr R. Muthrasan said the actor had sent a clear message to the people to not vote for the BJP. “Rajini has clearly said that he will not contest and asked everyone not to use his name or photo. By appealing to the people to support those who can find a solution to the river water sharing dispute, he has indirectly asked them not to vote for the BJP,” Mr Muthrasan said. Playing down Rajini's statement, BJP state president Dr Tamilisai Soundararajan said his decision cannot be a setback to her party. “Whether it is Rajini or Ajit, their decisions will never be a setback to the BJP. But what is surprising is the way his statement is being interpreted. Many construe that it is against the BJP. It is wrong to say it will be a setback for the BJP,” she said. According to VCK chief Thol Thirumavalavan the actor’s announcement will not impact Tamil Nadu politics but has only belied the expectations of his fans. “We should wait and see his decision if case the Assembly elections are held along with the Lok Sabha elections,” he said. CPI (M) State secretary Balakrishnan has appealed to Rajini to reconsider his decision.
