M K visits rain-hit areas, distributes relief

That next year’s elections are not far from politicians’ minds came to the fore when DMK chief M. Karunanidhi visited flood affected areas in Chennai on Wednesday. When rain-battered Chennai was limping to normalcy, a constant refrain of politicians was that the devastation should not be used for political mileage. Ostensibly, the DMK chief’s visit was to distribute relief material, but it was soon apparent that the visit was to ensure political mileage as the state assembly elections are approaching. 

This was witnessed in the way relief was distributed in the Chintadripet, Saidapet and Kotturpuram areas in Chennai. Karunanidhi arrived and distributed relief material - saris, blankets and rice - to just one or two victims, before moving to the next area. 

A mini lorry behind his vehicle then distributed relief to those having party tokens which were distributed in advance. Based on the token, relief was distributed. When partymen heard that Karunanidhi had already reached the next venue, the mini lorry pulled away leaving many with party tokens in the lurch sans relief material. People who still attempted to get relief were scolded resulting in victims specially women reciprocating with abuse. The ruling party hit the headlines for the wrong reasons when party men hijacked or pasted AIADMK stickers on relief material being carted in by NGOs and volunteers.

Though the government swung into action late, the saving grace was the work of the police, fire and rescue services, armed forces and the state and central disaster response teams. Kanagasabai of Mudichur affected by rain said, “Where were these people when we were neck-deep in water and really needed help? And what use are they now when the waters are receding?”