CHENNAI: Actor Rajinikanth’s entry into politics continued to draw mixed reactions from political parties.
Some were skeptical, some diplomatic and some downright rude. When his reaction was sought, AIADMK deputy coordinator K P Munusamy said, “Some individuals are being projected by those who longed to put an end to the Dravidian movement.”
Minister K T Rajenthra Bhalaji, known to drag himself into controversies, rejected suggestions that there was external pressure on the actor from the BJP to launch a party.
At Kolathur in Chennai, DMK president M K Stalin said anyone could enter politics as it was their democratic right. “Let him (Rajini) launch a party and announce his policies. I will comment then,” he said.
Asked about reports of Rajinikanth’s key political advisor, Tamilaruvi Manian telling the actor not to align with the DMK, Stalin said he did not receive any such information.
At a party meeting in Tiruttani, Munusamy said the Dravidian movement had been steering Tamil Nadu for five decades and certain elements were continuously striving hard to destroy it.
“What were these actors doing when Puratchi Thalaivi (Jayalalithaa) was ruling the state. Were they brave? Did they have the courage? Did they show any intention (to launch a party). They trembled when they heard our leader’s name,” Munusamy said. Efforts are being made by some to project these actors in a bid to end the Dravidian movement, Munusamy said.
Bhalaji took a dig at the media for dragging the BJP into Rajinikanth’s political entry. “Can’t he think for himself ?” the minister asked, adding that everyone’s objective was to defeat arch-rival DMK.
DMK women wing secretary M K Kanimozhi said actor Rajinikanth cannot split the DMK votes in the upcoming state assembly election. While touring in Thondamuthur and Coimbatore North assembly constituencies as part of Vidiyalai Nokki Stalinin Kural (Stalin’s voice for a new dawn) programme, the DMK leader said she would comment when Rajinikanth starts his political party.
“Anyone can launch their political outfit. But they cannot split the DMK votes and it won’t affect the DMK’s growth,” she said.