TN CM shocked at death; expresses condolences

Chennai, May 20 (UNI) Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK chief M Karunanidhi expressed deep shock at the sudden death of party veteran and present HR and CE Minister P T R Palanivel Rajan early today.

Mr Karunanidhi said only yesterday he had spoken in the state Assembly about the service rendered by Palanivel Rajan, who had been Speaker earlier, and the contribution of his father, P T Rajan.

After the elections, it was their wish that Palanivel Rajan should again be the Speaker, but he had expressed a desire to be in charge of HR and CE, and this was fulfilled. But nature had cut short his desire to serve that portfolio, the DMK head said in a release here.

Mr Karunanidhi said memories of the late leader were filling his mind, particularly his humility, principles and scholarship.

He was in a state where he could not console himself, the DMK chief said and expressed deep condolences to the bereaved family.

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