I myself will take action if Maran is found guilty: DMK chief

Salem, Apr 30 (UNI) Dismissing the ''arm-twisting'' charges against Union Communication Minister Dayanidhi Maran as ''baseless'', DMK president M Karunandihi today said he would be the first person to take action against Mr Maran if he was found guilty.

Talking to reporters here, he said the charges levelled against Mr Maran were borne out of jealousy and anger and was aimed at diverting the attention of the people.

Mr Maran is at the centre of controversy following allegations that he tried to ''arm-twist' the Tatas to part with their DTH business for Sun TV network, owned by his brother Kalanidhi Maran.

Denying the charge, Mr Maran had filed a defamation suit stating ''the article was motivated, malicious and defamatory in nature and had caused great mental pain and agony, besides resulting in lowering his reputation.'' When asked about the demand for Mr Maran's resignation from the Union cabinet, Mr Karunanidhi said there was no truth in the charge against him.

''It's all based on rumours and hearsay. He (Maran) has filed a case. If the charges are proved and if he is found guilty, I myself will initiate action against him'', he added.

''If such a situation arises (taking action against Maran), I will not show any mercy. I will not see him as my Grandson, but only as a party member'', Mr Karunanidhi added.

''Whatever the action to be taken against a DMK member, I will definitely take it'', he said and claimed there was no basis in the allegations levelled against the Union Minister.

As the polls were nearing, such charges were being levelled deliberately to divert the attention of the people, he added.

The DMK chief also denied the charge that he was trying to instigate communal clashes. ''I only spoke in a literary vein.

There is no ulterior motive in it,'' he added.

He described as ''imaginary'', the charge that his remarks, while speaking at a Public meeting in Usilamaptti were aimed at instigating clashes between Dalits and Thevars.

UNI GV AK KP1441