Stalin chairs LS poll manifesto meet

Party president M K Stalin chaired the meeting at its headquarters Anna Arivalayam, a day after the ruling BJP unveiled an arguably populist budget aimed at the ensuing LS elections.

The committee comprising former ministers T R Baalu, A Raja and sitting MPs was understood to have discussed extensively the populist announcements of the BJP, as well as the minimum income guarantee promised by Congress president Rahul Gandhi. The DMK, which has in the past come up with well received manifestos for both Assembly and Parliamentary polls, is expected to have some big-ticket announcements in its manifesto this time as well.

Apart from reiterating its stance on issues like Sethu Shipping Canal project, protection Tamil Nadu’s rights in riparian disputes and devolution of powers to the state, the DMK might insist on abolition of NEET or approval of the State legislation seeking exemption for Tamil Nadu from NEET, scrapping of ecologically sensitive projects in delta districts and allotment of more funds for the State from the Central kitty. The manifesto is also expected to lay emphasis on farming crisis, especially the waiver of crop loans.

MMK dismisses rumours about

divorcing ties with DMK

The Manithaneya Makkal Katchi (MMK), an ally of the DMK since the 2014 Parliamentary polls, as reiterated its commitment to be a part of a non-BJP front led by the DMK in Tamil Nadu.

Denying reports about an possible alliance with the AMMK, MMK president M H Jawahirullah said his party would fight the BJP in the poll fray as a part of the DMK-led front to overcome the threat posed to communal harmony and democracy.

Strongly condemning the reports suggesting that the party could fracture its ties with the DMK, Jawahirullah said the baseless and false rumours were being spread by evil forces with vested interests and added that their ploy would not bear fruits.

Questions about the MMK’s continuance in the DMK-led alliance were triggered by the DMK reportedly insisting on the minor partner contesting under its symbol (Rising Sun) in the ensuing LS elections, which the party has stoutly denied.