CM's daughter snubs speculations of entry into politics

Chennai, Mar 9 (UNI) Dismissing as ''ridiculous'' speculations that the ruling DMK was attempting to project her as the heir apparent, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi's poetess-daughter Kanimozhi today said she would enter politics as and when she made up her mind.

The octogenarian leader's youngest daughter, who is popular among the Tamil literary circles, is much in the limelight after the DMK came to power last year.

Ms Kanimozhi, who recently coordinated a cultural festival 'Chennai Sangamam' in the city, was in the eye of storm following criticisms that the Government had shown ''undue support'' to the event.

Refuting allegations that public money had been splurged for her image building to facilitate her entry into politics, she said ''I was born in a political family and if I really wanted to enter politics, I could have taken any other route.'' ''There is no necessity for me to enter politics through organising such cultural festivals,'' she quipped.

''I really feel sad for people who think that as the daughter of a Chief Minister, I should not appreciate art and culture,'' she told reporters here.

Asked if she had any political ambitions, Ms Kanimozhi said she had not taken any decision ''as of now.'' Undaunted by criticisms, the poetess said she would continue to support 'Chennai Sangamam' which was organised by a private organisation called Tamil Maiyam.

UNI