Former union minister MK Alagiri on Saturday met reporters in Madurai after sorting permission for his peace rally to M Karunanidhi's memorial. He said that he was not interested in holding any portfolio or to play any role in the party even when his father was alive.

He said, "MK Stalin is very keen on taking the reins of DMK as chief. My desire is not become the party's chief".

However, earlier on August 13 after paying tribute to his father, he said, "All the true and loyal supporters of Thalaivar, Kalaignar are with me, they are supporting me. Time will answer for the questions related to the party," 

Alagiri, who has been leading a life away from the media glare in Madurai since his expulsion, started issuing statements about the party after the demise of the former Chief Minister M Karunanidhi.

Alagiri said several people in the DMK were in touch with Tamil film superstar Rajinikanth, who has said he will launch a political party.

"The party will crumble if it loses the Lok Sabha polls. Party posts are being sold," he said, adding "Thalaivar will punish them... his soul will not allow them go scot-free."