Vaiko likely to be expelled by rebel MDMK men

Salem, Dec 28: Marumalarchi DMK (MDMK) General Secretary Vaiko is likely to be expelled from the party in the 'General Council' convened by rebel leaders, led by 'Presidium Chairman' L Ganesan here tomorrow.

After being stripped of their posts as Presidium Chairman and Deputy General Secretary, Mr Ganesan and Mr Gingee N Ramachandran, two of the four MDMK MPs, convened the general council, the party's highest decision making body, to show their strength.

Mr Ramachandran, in a statement here last night, said the general council would discuss Mr Vaiko's style of functioning and take appropriate action, indicating he would be expelled from the party.

The rebel leaders accused Mr Vaiko of having failed to run the party in accordance with party policies and principles and of trying to merge the party with its alliance partner, the AIADMK. They raised a banner of revolt, asking Mr Vaiko to snap ties with the AIADMK, only to be stripped of their party posts.

The meeting is taking place amid charges by Mr Vaiko that the ruling DMK was instigating the rebels to destabilise the party and capture 'Thayagam,' party headquarters. He also alleged DMK men were likely to attend the meeting, posing as MDMK General Council members.

UNI