We could be an alternative, Vaiko tells partymen

CHENNAI: Energised by the gains made by the MDMK in the civic polls, party general secretary Vaiko has asked his party men to work hard to emerge as a real alternative to the DMK  and AIADMK in Tamil Nadu. He has also strongly hinted that MDMK is likely to fight polls all alone in the future. Presided by Vaiko, the meeting of district secretaries and high level panel members besides other party bodies was held here on Thursday.According to sources, Vaiko expressed satisfaction over the performance of the party in the local body elections. Despite the ‘money and muscle power’ of the major political parties, MDMK was able to register its presence all alone.“No doubt, the influence of the party has grown in the eyes of the people. The success, though modest, is an inspiration to go all out with gusto,” Vaiko told his partymen. It is imperative to build on the gains that have been made. District secretaries should analyse the performance in their respective regions and identify potential regions for focus.Serious attention should be paid to increase membership and bring in influential local level community leaders, the MDMK chief stressed.“District secretaries have been asked to identify a minimum of  four assembly constituencies in their respective territories. In the chosen areas, office bearers should be appointed right from the grassroots level if there are no such representatives now,” a functionary said.Chalking out area-specific programmes, hitting the streets on local people’s issues should beamong other priorities. “The MDMK would take up the Mullaiperiyar issue in a way never seen  before,” the functionary said. After a discussion on the party’s 18-year political journey, after it split from the DMK, views on alternately aligning with DMK and the AIADMK were exchanged. Ending the discussion, Vaiko quipped ‘enough is enough.’ “The MDMK could emerge as not only an alternative to the DMK and the AIADMK but it could also prove to be a true offspring of the Dravidian movement.”Explaining that the political climate is conducive for the MDMK in Tamil Nadu, Vaiko said through unpopular moves like sacking the workers, the AIADMK would dig its own grave. “The DMK is rudderless, and there is no need to speak of others. Through hard work, the party could hope to climb the top tomorrow and if not the day after.’’