MDMK general secretary Vaiko on Wednesday announced that his party will not contest the by-elections scheduled in seven constituencies in Tamil Nadu. He made the statement while speaking to reporters in Tirunelveli.
Vaiko alleged that in the past the DMK had pressured the MDMK to contest under the “Rising Sun” symbol. Referring to claims that the DMK had decided to support an AIADMK government from outside, he said that if such reports were true, it would amount to a major political deception.
Commenting on internal splits, Vaiko said those who left the party had hurt him deeply, but added that he does not make it a habit to criticise those who depart. He also noted that several who had left have since met him again.
Vaiko said he views the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam as part of the Dravidian movement and praised Chief Minister Vijay for providing a corruption-free administration. He claimed that the “commission” culture had been eliminated.
He added that while the MDMK will stay out of the upcoming bypolls, the party is prepared to contest future elections under an independent symbol. Vaiko also said Chief Minister Vijay will attend a function in Delhi on August 4 to release an English book compiling Vaiko’s Parliament speeches.
