Natwar gatecrashes into Rajiv memorial function

Chennai, Aug 20: Former External Affairs Minister and suspended Congress leader Natwar Singh today sprang a surprise by 'gatecrashing' into 'Kamarajar Arangam' here, where the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC) had organised a function to celebrate the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.

Mr Natwar Singh, clad in an impeccable white suit walked on to the stage where Union Minister G K Vasan, TNCC President M Krishnasamy, Congress High Command Tamil Nadu observer Veerappa Moily, Congress Rajya Sabha Members Sudharsan Nachiappan, Gnanadesikan, Mrs Yesodha and Peter Alphonse were present.

Congress MLAS, Congress Legislature Party leader Sudharshanam, Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) President G K Mani MLA, State Local Administration Minister M K Stalin and others, who were also present on the stage were stunned by the sudden appearance of Mr Singh.

The audience were taken a back by surprise when PMK President Mani, while addressing the meeting, announced the arrival of Mr Singh.

However, Mr Singh went and took a seat in the first row on the dais. As no one came forward to greet him, he showered petals to a decorated portrait of late Rajiv Gandhi and left the venue.

TNCC President M Krishnasamy told sources that they never invited Mr Singh and added that he came on his own.

It was later discovred that Mr Singh, who was here since last night on a private visit, was passing through the venue on Anna Salai when he was told that Rajiv Gandhi's birth anniversary celebrations were going on at the 'Kamarajar Arangam'. Following this, he made a quick decision to visit the function and pay tributes to the late leader.

UNI

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