Thirumavalavan apologises for remarks on Hindu temples

Speaking at a public meeting organised by the DMK at RK Nagar, Thiruma recalled his recent speech on demolition of Hindu temples, which invited criticism from Hindu outfits and the BJP. He said, “I did not speak wrongly. I stated the history, but I would express regret if anyone felt hurt by my speech.”

Thirumavalavan, who is nicknamed a ‘crowd puller,’ said that the BJP at the Centre is trying to convert the secular country into a communal one. “The DMK should not give any chance for such a detrimental aim. I hope that the RK Nagar bypoll will pave the way for DMK leader Stalin to ensure the victory and this is a historical chance.”

Known for his fiery speeches, MDMK general secretary Vaiko hit out at Governor Banwarilal Purohit accusing him of interfering in the administration. “Who are you Mr Purohit to do such unconstitutional activities,” he questioned.

Stressing that Tamil Nadu has been a land, where Periyar and Anna lived, Vaiko said no one can break Dravidian movement. Charging the government for its poor administration, he castigated Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami stating that his government is sleeping. “The day is not too far for Stalin to rule the roost in the state and the flag of DMK will flutter in the Secretariat,” he added.

TNCC president Su Thirunavukkarasar said, “This is a historical day as Rahul Gandhi too has become AICC president and on this day, I also participate in this meeting. While I wish Rahul to head the Centre, I want Stalin to be the same in the state.”

Hitting out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi government for demonetisation, he said, “Such blatant decision has affected the common people and the poor largely.”

CM Palaniswami, who, in the last rescinded bypoll in this constituency gathered support to one person, has started campaigning for another candidate and this is a shameful act, he noted.

The meeting was held in VOC Nagar in Tondaiarpet where thousands of cadres thronged to hear their leaders speak.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister and joint-coordinator of AIADMK Edappadi K Palaniswami announced the disbursal of Rs 20,000 subsidy for purchasing mopeds by educated women from the ensuing birth anniversary of former CM J Jayalalithaa in February, when he was electioneering for the party candidate E Madhusudhanan, in Washermenpet on Monday evening. Earlier, in the day, about 3,000 youth from different parts of the City joined the ruling party in the presence of EPS and party coordinator O Panneerselvam.