George Fernandes calls on Karunanidhi

Chennai, May 31 (UNI) Former Defence Minister and NDA Convenor George Fernandes today called on Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi and discussed the upcoming Presidential polls.

The meeting held at the Chief Minister's Gopalapuram residence, lasted about half an hour.

Later, talking to waiting newspersons, Mr Fernandes said he discussed a couple of issues, including the Presidential polls.

''We (the NDA) had not decided about the Presidential candidate'', he said.

However, the issue figured during the talks, he added.

Mr Fernandes also urged Mr Karunanidhi to lift the ban on extraction of toddy from Palm and Coconut trees. The ban was imposed long back.

''The Chief Minister said a committee has been formed to look into the issue. After receipt of its report, the government will take appropriate step'', he added.

Mr Fernandes also urged Mr Karunanidhi to waive the loans availed by toddy tappers between 1984 and 1994 through Khadi Commission. The Chief Minister also agreed to consider this demand, he added.

UNI