Polls show MGR as the best CM of Tamil Nadu

Chennai, Dec 20 (UNI) AIADMK Founder M G Ramachandran was the best Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, according to an opinion poll here.

About 44 per cent of respondents considered 'MGR' as the best Chief Minister of the state in a survey conducted by the School of Media Studies (SMS) of the Loyola College and the People Research Centre.

The charismatic leader, who launched the popular nutritious meal scheme for poor students, ruled the state continuously for 11 years from 1977 to 1987. He died while being at the helm of affairs on December 26, 1987.

Congress Chief Minister K Kamaraj, known for his simplicity and honesty, came second with the support of 31 per cent of respondents.

Incumbent M Karunanidhi, who had assumed office for the record fifth time, was third in the list with 14.5 per cent of respondents choosing him as the best Chief Minister.

Interestingly, AIADMK General Secretary J Jayalalithaa, who was considered as the heir-apparent of MGR, had the support of only 4.2 per cent of respondents. She haS served as Chief Minister for two terms.

Dravidian Stalwart and DMK Founder C N Annadurai was the last in the list with only 3.2 per cent of respondents voting for him.

Releasing the survey findings to the media here, SMS Director S Rajanayagam said student-researchers surveyed 2,943 people in 29 districts except Nilgiris in two phases between November seven to 16 and from December 10 to 14.

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