Disciplinary action only after my nod, Rajini tells Mandram members

Rajinikanth debunked rumours that the recent spate of disciplinary actions were undertaken without his knowledge and said all appointments and disciplinary proceedings are finalised only after his approval. He alluded to a statement made by him in May wherein he had said that when he entered politics, he would be sure to distance himself from people who sought fame and money through his platform since the positive change that he aspires to bring to the State is not in line with such motives.

He said that at no point had he asked members of Rajini Makkal Mandram to spend out of their pockets for activities of the organisation. He reiterated that members should provide for their own families before engaging in any activities for the organisation.

Rajinikanth said he believes that merely having a fan club won’t help make inroads in politics. Connection with the people is paramount for success and it can be forged only by members of the Mandram working closely with the people and helping them in various activities. 

The 67-year-old also said he’s aware of those who work tirelessly for the organisation and the fruit of their work would be reflected in the good that would come to the people and the country. He censured those he believed spread falsehood about the organisation and said those who engage in such activities cannot be true fans.

The statement comes in the wake of months of dissatisfaction among the members over various dismissals and the churn in the organisation after the induction of Dr Illavarasan to perform a larger role. The letter is said to be the outcome of a two-hour meeting held by Rajinikanth with key office bearers on Monday.

He declared his intention to enter politics on December 31 last year.