Kanimozhi takes potshots at PMK chief

Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu, Jun 15: The worsening relations between the ruling DMK and its ally PMK came to the fore again with DMK Rajya Sabha MP and Chief Minister M Karunanidhi's daughter M Kanimozhi today taking an indirect dig at PMK founder-leader S Ramadoss.

Delivering a speech during the DMK Women's Wing Conference in this port town, Ms Kanimozhi said the DMK Government had fulfilled rationalist leader periyar's wish for women to enjoy share in property.

Periyar had mooted the proposal in 1929 during a Self Respect Conference. Sixty years later, the DMK Government made his dream come true.

Some people were jealous of the 'doctor' (Dr Kalaignar as Mr Karunanidhi is affectionately called) and spread canards about him.

But Periyar himself had given a certificate of appreciation to the 'doctor' and none except the rationalist leader can award him any marks.

The reference was obviously to the 'fail marks' Dr S Ramadoss 'awarded' to the DMK Government on the day it completed two years in the office.

Mr Karunanidhi was apparently hurt by constant criticism from Dr Ramadoss about his government. The flashpoint came from a speech delivered by PMK Leader J Guru who allegedly threatened to kill DMK leaders. When this was brought to Mr Karunanidhi's notice by Electricity Minister Arcot N Veerasamy at a function, the Chief Minister promised to examine the ties with the PMK at a meeting of High Level Policy Implementation Committee after the conclusion of the women's wing conference here.

Meanwhile, Dr Ramadoss accused the DMK President of attempting to portray his party in bad light.

Continuing with her speech, Ms Kanimozhi accused former Chief Minister and AIADMK General Secretary J Jayalalithaa of allegedly supporting communal forces.

''Several people died in the carnage unleashed by the communal forces in Gujarat. However, Ms Jayalalithaa is fostering and welcoming such forces.

''If they come to Tamil Nadu, the state will meet the same fate as Gujarat. While violence was perpetrated in the name of God in the northern States, down South peace prevailed due to rational thinking.

''If we allow the communal forces to enter our State, the freedom enjoyed by women for over 150 years will be lost forever,'' she warned.

UNI