DMK counts on Karuna magic again

DMK chief Karunanidhi has decided to advance his poll campaign in a bid to counter Alagiri’s crusade against the party.

With no signs of slowing down even at the age of 80, the patriarch will launch his campaign on Wednesday, canvassing for candidates in three constituencies — former Union minister Dayanidhi Maran (Chennai Central), T K S Elangovan (Chennai South) and R Girirajan (Chennai North) — in Chepauk.

With scores of political leaders seeking Alagiri’s support, preponing of the campaign will be a morale booster to party cadres. In addition, Alagiri is touring the southern part of the state and conducting a series of meetings to show his supporters’ strength.

Karunanidhi, a powerful orator, is a crowd-puller, even today. DMK party sources said during the second phase of the campaign, Karunanidhi is expected to visit Madurai and the surrounding areas.

In his political history, Karunanidhi has earned the reputation of being accurate in assessing political situations in the state.

His ability to foresee any turn of events made him an able administrator.

While party general secretary K Anbazhagan would commence campaigning from March 30, Rajya Sabha MP and Karunanidhi’s daughter Kanimozhi will start her electioneering from April 5.

Reports from Madurai said that Alagiri is likely to go on a statewide tour to hold consultations with loyalists across Tamil Nadu in order to galvanise support.

The DMK has recently announced it would take disciplinary action against those who sided with Alagiri. The party has accused Alagiri of “misleading party workers”.