Alagiri says will contest DMK internal polls democratically

CHENNAI - Union Chemicals and Fertilizers Minister and Dravida Munnetra Kazagam (DMK) leader M K Alagiri on Thursday said he would contest the party’s upcoming internal elections democratically.

Alagiri is reportedly planning to contest for the party chief’s post held by his father and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi.

Alagiri’s statement is seen as extension of a tussle between him and State Deputy Chief Minister M K Stalin.

In an interview to a Tamil Magazine, Karunanidhi denied any ‘friction’ between his sons, and said: “If they clash, it would lead to my heart bleeding and both of them know this very well.”

Commenting on his successor, Karunanidhi said: “In a democracy, individuals have the right to choose their leader… but to implement that decision lies with the party; even I do not have that power.”

On Thursday, Alagiri received a rousing welcome on his return to the city after a brief holiday in Singapore.

Last month, Alagiri said he is not ready to accept any one as his leader after Karunanidhi.

“I will not accept anybody in the DMK as my leader. None is qualified or capable to occupy his position,” Alagiri said.

“After Anna, Kalaignar (Karunanidhi’s sobriquet) has been, continues to be, and will remain my leader forever,” he added, (ANI)