Rajiv statue attack was to divide DMK, Cong: MK

Chennai, Oct 25: The damage of the statue of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi at Kodungaiyur in north Chennai on Friday, Oct 24, was an attempt to create a rift between the ruling DMK and its ally, the Congress, Chief Minister and DMK President M Karunanidhi alleged here on Saturday, Oct 25.

Answering a set of questions, Mr Karunanidhi said the damage caused to the statue could be the handiwork of some anti-social elements as some miscreants were anxiously looking for a crack in the relations between the DMK and the Congress. They would be exposed soon, he added. Stating that it was a serious crime and deserved to be punished, the Chief Minister said the police has been instructed to bring to book the culprits and detain them under the Goondas Act.

Miscreants vandalised the bust of Rajiv Gandhi, triggering protests by the Congressmen. They had staged a 'road-roko,' demanding action against the miscreants involved in the incident. Police had said one person was arrested in this connection. Meanwhile, TNCC president K V Thangabalu, condemning the incident, demanded that the police take immediate action and bring the culprits to book. He said the TNCC would unveil a new statue at the same place.

UNI